Chapter 9- Search and Light Salvage Search and Light Salvage 219 • Anchors and search lines or reels • Dive lights • Compass board • Diver’s sled and tow line • Tool kit • Spare parts kit • First aid kit • Lift bag • Separate air supply • Ropes, carabiners • Underwater metal detector RISK FACTORS A prudent diver will understand the potential risks involved with any activity. Naturally, underwater search and recovery dives include all of the risk factors associated with routine diving. However, because of the specific requirements associated with this type of diving, some of these factors become more noteworthy. The following must be considered. Entanglement The potential of entanglement in fishing nets, fishing lines, and other debris is often increased because the diver must work near the bottom and often in very limited visibility. If vision is completely obscured, the diver will have to search by feel. Further, the search line itself presents a potential entanglement hazard. Good line handling techniques are mandatory, as well as good buddy communications. Physical Injury Since the diver is often swimming about and feeling for a lost item in very limited visibility, the possibility of accidental encounter with sharp objects is greatly increased. Divers are encouraged to wear sturdy protective clothing (including heavy gloves) and make all movements slowly and systematically. Diver Separation The problems associated with limited visibility and the potential for diver separation have been discussed in a previous chapter. Special care and techniques are required to avoid diver separation during searches in limited visibility. The use of a search line does provide a common connection that reduces the risk of separation. Loss of Control in Current Current complicates any underwater search effort. Divers have more difficulty maintaining position and systematically covering a designated area. Furthermore, the current may actually carry the diver into debris and/or complicate resolution of an entanglement. Novice divers are well-advised to forgo search and recovery activities in currents. Loss of Ascent Control Divers must observe great care when lifting an object by flotation. Because of the expansion of air in the flotation unit, it may rise rapidly to the surface. Divers must not “ride” a rising object to the surface at rates faster than the normal ascent rate. Anytime that an object is being hoisted or floated to the surface, all divers must take exceptional care to remain clear of the object and rigging. During ascent the expansion of air in the flotation unit can cause rapid acceleration. If the flotation unit or object strikes a diver, the diver could be injured. Of greater concern is the possibility of an object being floated (or lifted) to the surface breaking away from its attachment point and falling back to the bottom. A falling object could strike a diver, causing serious injury or even death. Risk-Benefit Assessment All search and recovery operations should include a risk-benefit analysis. “Is the risk associated with searching for and/or recovering this object justifiable in terms of the benefits derived from finding and recovering the object?” For the average recreational diver, looking for a lost mask at the local dive site under normal diving
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