Surface Safety
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SAFETY TALK - SEPTEMBER 2007
Surface Safety
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Snorkel tragedy
Readers may wish to consider the potential risks they face with what is often considered a safer side of diving. In the case of my brother, Peter Dixon, he died in July 2007 aged 52, as a result of complications associated with a Malignant Melanoma, directly attributable to an incident whilst snorkelling in the Maldives.
Unable to scuba dive due to sinus problems, Peter had been a keen snorkeller since his early teens in the 1960’s and had snorkelled in many countries, including in the early 2000’s, snorkelling with his partner in the Maldives. He had not realised the strength of the sun and although he was wearing protection in the form of both clothing and sun screen – but not enough. As a consequence he suffered acute sunburn and in particular to the area behind his ears, a small, but important, area he had forgotten to protect.
In 2004 he was diagnosed as having skin cancer, which proved to be highly aggressive and Peter underwent considerable treatment, including surgery and radiotherapy to his ear, neck and lymph system. Despite all this, Peter was soon diagnosed as having reached Stage 4, although he survived rather longer than the prognosis suggested.
 This illustrates the perils of snorkelling in what might be considered idyllic circumstances. My family and I are keen that others take note so that further such tragedies are avoided.
David Dixon
BSAC Council Member
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Surface Safety
In reporting Diving Incidents it is not often that the consequences of the weather are directly implicated as the main cause of an incident, except perhaps with rough sea conditions?
With the substantial increase in recent years of travel to exotic locations more and more notice needs to be taken of environmental conditions.
Surface Protection
There is a wealth of information available to all travellers to warmer climes on how to avoid the problems associated with sunburn and heatstroke. Some very simple precautions are understood by most of us but the sheer intensity of the sun can still lead to problems from very momentary lapses in precautions. Simple safeguards include, wearing a broad brimmed hat and light protective clothes, using high protection factor sun creams and reapplying them regularly and avoiding exposure around midday. It is also very important to be aware of the cooling effect of coastal winds or a moving boat will have in reducing one’s awareness of the sun’s intensity.
Snorkelling Snorkelling, particularly in an attempt to cool off during the heat of the day has particular risks associated with it. The cooling effect of the water makes it difficult to appreciate the effects of the overhead radiation. Many divers have suffered severe sunburn as a result of this, that have often spoilt the enjoyment of an exotic holiday. Some simple precautions would include, wearing a protective T-shirt and head and neck protection, a bandana or similar light scarf is ideal (as it can cover the back of ears as well) and make liberal use of water resistant, high sun protection factor sun creams (don’t forget the back of legs and ears if exposed) and limit time in the water.
Internal Protection
Don’t omit the importance of maintaining a healthy internal environment. Making sure that you keep well hydrated will not only ensure that you replace the fluids lost due to the heat but it also can reduce the risks associated with DCI. Taking care with the food you eat will also help with general well-being as the debilitating effects of sickness and diarrhoea are kept at bay.
On occasions the weather in the UK warrants similar precautions being taken. Make sure your preparations to dive take account of the prevailing weather forecast and follow the simple steps above. Additional consideration may need to be given to situations where working hard in a drysuit or thick wetsuit, such as launching a boat, may lead to overheating.
Think SAFE - Dive SAFE
Any suggestions for further items for inclusion would be welcome and can be made to divesafe@bsac.com
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Register for Updates To make sure you recieve a direct notification of each months topic for SAFETY TALK as well as other information about important BSAC changes, new BSAC services and BSAC benefits please register for the BSAC MAILING LIST |
Page last modified: 31st Jan 2008 - 15:20:26