Diving charity calls for safer diving
Following considerable press and media coverage of the coroner's inquest in Plymouth on 8th August 2006 into three diving fatalities, at which the Diving Diseases Research Centre (DDRC) provided an expert witness, the charity has issued the following statement.
DDRC is an independent charity, which provides support and advice to members of all recreational diving agencies at every level of experience.
DDRC believes that where training guidelines, in particular the guidance on diving in different environments and conditions, and medical recommendations are followed diving is a pursuit that can be carried out and enjoyed safely in the UK. The underwater environment and its potential hazards must be respected. DDRC acknowledges the overall high quality of training provided in the UK but feels that divers must recognise their own limitations and gain experience safely in accordance with their training agency guidelines. It is well recognised that a series of small events before and during a dive can accumulate and result in a serious incident. DDRC recommends that all divers follow the procedures taught in their training before, during and after every dive.
Divers have a responsibility to themselves and their dive buddy to honestly and truthfully consider their personal fitness to dive before every single dive and seek advice if they are uncertain. Those guiding or teaching divers must have the confidence to express reservations or abort a dive if they have any doubts regarding the ability or fitness of a diver for the planned dive.
DDRC continues to provide medical advice to divers who contact us and will answer each question to the best of our ability and knowledge.
It is not DDRC's role to comment on recent tragic events, other than, when asked by the courts, to provide expert witnesses to help them reach an informed decision. Ongoing communication between divers, the dive agencies, emergency and health services is paramount to try and minimise the risk of such tragic events occurring in the future.
DDRC, as an independent charity, will continue to promote safe diving through research and the provision of treatment when required.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Page last modified: 6th Nov 2006 - 10:33:22