Top Ten Thoughts after 25 Years

[Rick Palm]

1. If you've ever had a "close call," you shouldn't be cave diving.
2. Consider diving solo: you're responsible for only one diver. Bring four or more backup lights and a spare mask.
3. You don't need a BC, just a simple harness: Trim your gear for neutral buoyancy and your lungs become your BC.
4. Stop to look at the grandeur: eg, the gorgeous Gallery, where most divers swim or scooter through on their way to a distant destination without a glance.
5. Relish the social interaction topside in the parking lot. Patiently answer questions from open water divers and tubers: impart the excitement and enjoyment of our sport.
7. Relish the friendships made.
8. Remain humble: No hubris.
9. Have a beer in the parking lot with other divers after your dive, many who have come from other states and countries.
10. Have fun.

[Diverlee]

I don?t get number 1?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[DogDiver]

Number 1: that?s under the assumption that you had the close call from your actions. But close calls may be the result of a team mates action.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Dsix36]

#1 could be from a gator in the river or a natural thing like a rock breaking loose and trapping you.

#3 can not hold true if diving a rebreather

#9 and throw away my 30+ years of sobriety, no thanks. have to settle for Mountain Dew

[Diverlee]

Number 1: that?s under the assumption that you had the close call from your actions. But close calls may be the result of a team mates action.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I?m thinking everyone has had a close call or an oh #### moment. You learn from it. You do not quit cave diving. Just my opinion


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[mr_v]

If you haven't had a close call, you haven't lived.

[SR]

#1 It depends on what you call a "close call" or if is a "teaching moment". I have had teaching moments that changed how I dive.
#9 Most of the parks do not allow alcohol consumption. I would take it out to the restaurant or more appropriate venue.

[Diverlee]

#9 you can substitute a non alcoholic beverage. Think the point was socializing after the dive Just my opinion


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Terry D]

I read #1 as meaning that if you had a close call, it was only because you got lucky. Something in your planning should have prevented a "close call".. if it didn't, you might need to rethink your planning, your training, or your approach. " Luck" has never been valid cave diving technique.

[MORGAN]

My #9 suggestion: Go to Pepe's and socialize while devouring obscene amounts of Mexican food! BBQ will also do.