Whether you're taking your first steps into the world of scuba diving or you're already an expert, you'll probably want to know (or may already know) about all the potential issues that can arise. Well, perfect! Because not only will we remind you of them, but we're also bringing you the solutions!
Water Leaking into the Mask
One of the most common issues without a doubt. The solution? Buy wisely. Yes, it's that simple... Don't skimp on the mask. You need to consider that every face is different—you can try a thousand models, as there's a huge variety on the market: black and transparent silicone; with one, two, or more lenses; with an angle to improve visibility...
The main reasons why water might seep into your mask are:
Water Leaking into the Mask
One of the most common issues without a doubt. The solution? Buy wisely. Yes, it's that simple... Don't skimp on the mask. You need to consider that every face is different—you can try a thousand models, as there's a huge variety on the market: black and transparent silicone; with one, two, or more lenses; with an angle to improve visibility...
The main reasons why water might seep into your mask are:
- Poor fit.
- A hood or hair caught under the mask. Try to avoid this. If you have long hair, it's best to tie it back.
- Deterioration of the silicone or the strap. It's best to store the mask in a rigid case of the right size for transport. This will prevent impacts that could break the lens or cause irreversible deformations in the mask frame. Don't leave the mask drying in the sun or expose it for too long—it can become brittle, and one day the strap or frame might snap. Take care of your mask like the rest of your gear.
- A bump from your dive buddy or another diver's hand or fin. Pay attention to the movements of nearby divers (especially those in front of you) and anticipate their actions to prevent this.
What should you do when water gets inside your mask?
- Reposition the mask correctly, look towards the surface while placing two fingers on the top of the frame surrounding the lenses, and blow continuously through your nose until all the water is expelled. The rising air gets trapped at the top and clears the water from your mask. Repeat if necessary.
- Under no circumstances, even if you've lost the mask, should you ascend uncontrollably to the surface. Stay calm, keep breathing, and wait for your buddy to notice the issue. Then ascend together at a safe speed.
Fogging of the Lenses
There's nothing worse during a dive than missing half of what your buddies saw because your mask is fogged up. The solution?
- Clean the lenses regularly with degreasing products (dish soap works) and rinse them thoroughly afterward. During a dive, especially if there's a temperature difference between the air and water, vapours and oils from your skin accumulate. Other home remedies include lemon, potato, toothpaste, and, of course, saliva. But for these to work effectively, never wet the mask beforehand, and rinse it afterward.
- Just in case none of this works, it doesn't hurt to carry a spare mask in one of your jacket pockets.
Regulator Issues
If water enters the mouthpiece of your second stage, it might be cracked or damaged. It's best to check the regulator, the condition of the silicone, and the fastening before diving. If it's worn out, replace it immediately. It's not pleasant to be left with a broken mouthpiece—or a piece of it—in your mouth, unable to breathe. Nor is it easy or comfortable to breathe without one.
If this happens during the dive, you can continue by pressing the purge button on the second stage, but you'll use much more air than usual.
Loss of Weight Belt
It's always better to distribute the weight evenly around your waist without twisting it, and fasten it securely with the buckle (preferably plastic, as metal ones rust). Remember that underwater, due to pressure, your body and wetsuit compress, and the belt can slip down if not properly adjusted. When handling it, always hold it by the strap, never by the buckle.
If water enters the mouthpiece of your second stage, it might be cracked or damaged. It's best to check the regulator, the condition of the silicone, and the fastening before diving. If it's worn out, replace it immediately. It's not pleasant to be left with a broken mouthpiece—or a piece of it—in your mouth, unable to breathe. Nor is it easy or comfortable to breathe without one.
If this happens during the dive, you can continue by pressing the purge button on the second stage, but you'll use much more air than usual.
Loss of Weight Belt
It's always better to distribute the weight evenly around your waist without twisting it, and fasten it securely with the buckle (preferably plastic, as metal ones rust). Remember that underwater, due to pressure, your body and wetsuit compress, and the belt can slip down if not properly adjusted. When handling it, always hold it by the strap, never by the buckle.
- It's important not to ditch it unnecessarily, especially near the surface. If you lose it at depth, ask your buddy for help. Kneel on the bottom and, with their help, reposition it correctly. If you can't, don't let go—ascend with it in your hand.
- In an extreme case, if you ascend without weights, try to do so as slowly as possible, braking by positioning your fins parallel to the surface or in an inverted position, kicking downward to compensate for the buoyancy of your suit.
Losing a Fin
It's always crucial to choose good fins, as worn-out straps or fastenings can cause you to lose one during the dive. Wondering how to react?
- Get your buddy's attention and ascend slowly to the surface. If needed, you can use the jacket, but don't insist on continuing the dive—you might cramp up since you won't be able to maintain a normal rhythm.
Dehydration. Cramps
When breathing, due to the dryness of the tank air, our bodies lose twice as much water vapour humidifying that air compared to normal conditions. Other factors like hypercapnia (CO2 poisoning from high-pressure breathing) or cold stimulate diuresis (fluid loss through urine) and reduce blood plasma volume. This not only increases the risk of decompression sickness but can also cause muscle issues. How to prevent it?
- It's essential to hydrate well before diving and, of course, maintain an acceptable fitness level. And, surprisingly, choose fins based on your ability—opt for fins with medium stiffness, matching your fitness and kicking technique.
Potential Entanglements
In many coastal areas, there's a risk of getting snagged on fishing gear or remnants of nets stuck on the seabed—not just in wrecks, caves, or grottos.
If you get entangled, stay calm. If you panic and move uncontrollably, the situation could worsen as oxygen consumption and stress increase while reasoning ability decreases. So, what should you do?
In many coastal areas, there's a risk of getting snagged on fishing gear or remnants of nets stuck on the seabed—not just in wrecks, caves, or grottos.
If you get entangled, stay calm. If you panic and move uncontrollably, the situation could worsen as oxygen consumption and stress increase while reasoning ability decreases. So, what should you do?
- Move back slowly and assess the situation. If possible, free yourself with your buddy's help and a dive knife. If not, abandon anything impossible to untangle, including heavy gear—in which case, ascend slowly using your buddy's alternate regulator.
Considering all of the above, it's crucial to perform a final check with your buddy on your diving equipment before submerging to avoid issues later.
Check the jacket and its fasteners, the tank attachment, the air supply (verify pressure and both second stages), and the weights' positioning. Ensure the fin straps and mask are secure, the regulator hoses and backup second stage are fastened. Check your instruments, and... if everything's OK, it's time to hit the water!
