would you dive with this guy

[scubajane]

First post but avid reader....Here is my problem...
I have a new dive buddy at work; we are diving where business takes us.

We are both 45+. I am a new diver( 4 years); rescue certified with 120 dives. I dive within what I feel are my limits regardless of my buddy, and will only dive to where I feel I am capable of self rescue. He has a 70s YMCA certification and is a 1-2 times a year warm water diver.

My question is-Do you dive with someone who you know is putting himself at risk. The first trip was in poor conditons-I rationalized his lack of safety stops and rapid assent rates as being rusty and the "chop". During this last 4 dive trip-after a 80 foot dive(20 min) assending to 45 ft for 35 min, again no saftey stop. He is also like a cork popping to the surface( despite a computer) even multiple times to look for the boat.
My suggestions go ignored, the "navy guys have done this for years"

 

[NINman]

First I would like to welcome you to SB...

Simple answer "NO, I would not". I can see you have attempted to help him, but he just isn't listening or even attempting. I would try again and talk to him about how you like to dive your profile. Let him know that it isn't safe to dive like that and also let him know that the NAVY divers also have access to a Chamber. This of course is my .02cents.

 

[Northeastwrecks]

Not even if you paid me. And, for the record, I do get paid to escort newbie divers who pull some of the most amazing tricks you could imagine.

 

[CBulla]

Different school different era different train of thought. Even given that into consideration, after some discussion and being blown off, I'd have dropped him as a buddy.

 

[Doc Intrepid]

scubajane,

If he dives in a way that puts himself at risk, as his buddy where does that put you?

Aren't you at risk too? Who has to respond to any problem his antics might cause?

If you have doubts about how safe your buddy is when diving, either you resolve those doubts to YOUR satisfaction or you don't dive with that buddy. If he isn't willing to work with you on these things you bring up to him, then you don't dive with him.

IMO you need to be able to rely on your buddy. It makes all the difference in the world.

 

[pipedope]

Even the Navy divers do not dive the same now that they did in the '70s.

Any diver who is unwilling to continue learning and updating skills is not a good choice as a buddy.

 

[Gary D.]

He needs a refresher or at least some coffee breaks with some instructors.

In the 60’s it was “recommended” we ascend at 60 fpm. Safety stops were unheard of. Computers were a joke at best and half the size of a 72. The word BC hadn’t been invented yet. We wore panty hose under unlined ¼” wet suits. Split fins were when the boards broke. Masks were black round or oval with high tech being a purge valve. Just bare straps or a plate held on tanks with "J" valves and dry suits didn’t have inflaters or exhaust valves.

Now tell the Bozo to get with the real world and learn what’s going on. We have gone from rear cable brakes to power disc's on all 4.

Gary D.

 

[MXGratefulDiver]

I don't think I'd dive with him ... especially since he's unwilling to listen to your concerns. I'd just explain to him that you need to dive in the manner that you were taught to be safe practice, and if he cannot do that then he needs to find someone else to dive with ... as do you.

Refuse politely ... but do yourself a favor, and refuse ...

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

 

[DandyDon]

NO WAY!! I often dive with people I don't know, but when I know a diver is dangerous - I refuse. I don't want the risk to myself, I don't want to dive with someone who dives beyond my possible assistance, I don't want the legal liabilities, and I just don't want to be on the same boat when he hurts himself or dies.

I've dived with - and now totally avoid - dilatin taking divers with history or seizures, diabetic alcoholics who won't wear a medical tag, and a few other idiots. Darwism happens, but I don't want to watch.

 

[Gary D.]

NO WAY!! I often dive with people I don't know, but when I know a diver is dangerous - I refuse. I don't want the risk to myself, I don't want to dive with someone who dives beyond my possible assistance, I don't want the legal liabilities, and I just don't want to be on the same boat when he hurts himself or dies.

I've dived with - and now totally avoid - dilatin taking divers with history or seizures, diabetic alcoholics who won't wear a medical tag, and a few other idiots. Darwism happens, but I don't want to watch.

Sure makes solo diving attractive doesn't it.

Gary D.