Chapter 4- Diving Science Diving Science 119 a compressor that has been lubricated with the wrong oil or that overheats can produce carbon monoxide. Truck or automobile exhaust fumes are another potential source of carbon monoxide. Keep the compressor intake as high and as far away from potential carbon monoxide sources as possible. Once carbon monoxide is inhaled, it interferes with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen to the tissues. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include nausea, confusion, headache, unconsciousness, and possibliy bright red lips and/or nail beds. Fresh air is helpful, but pure oxygen and immediate medical attention are needed for proper treatment. If the air in your tank has an odor or taste, do not use it. Notify the facility that filled the tank as soon as possible so they can investigate the problem. You can avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by always having your tanks filled at a professional dive facility where the compressor is properly set up and maintained (figure 4-35). People who smoke expose themselves to increased levels of carbon monoxide. This is another reason divers should not smoke. Verify What You Have Learned Review the following questions about the indirect effects of pressure: 29. How can you prevent oxygen toxicity? ___________________________ 30. How can you prevent carbon monoxide toxicity? ___________________________ 31. How can you prevent DCS? ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ 32. How can you prevent nitrogen narcosis? ___________________________ 33. If your buddy has symptoms of nitrogen narcosis, what should you do? ___________________________ THERMAL EFFECTS OF DIVING When the water temperature is colder than your skin temperature, you should wear some type of insulation while diving. You lose heat under water in several ways: • The water conducts heat away from your body rapidly. • Each time you take a breath under water, you breathe in cool, compressed air that you must warm to your body temperature. • Each time you exhale under water, you lose the heat energy you used to warm the air you inhaled. FIGURE 4-34. NITROX IS AN ACCEPTABLE GAS TO USE FOR DIVING IF YOU HAVE BEEN TRAINED TO USE IT. FIGURE 4-35. ALWAYS HAVE YOUR TANKS FILLED AT A PROFESSIONAL DIVING CENTER OR STORE.
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