How to Create a Dive Emergency Action Plan
Learn how to create a dive emergency action plan and why it’s critical for safe scuba diving, especially when diving in remote or unfamiliar locations.
SAFETY WHILE DIVING
How to Create a Dive Emergency Action Plan
Even with the best preparation, scuba diving carries inherent risks. That’s why every diver or dive leader should know how to create a Dive Emergency Action Plan (EAP). This essential plan outlines the steps to take if something goes wrong underwater or at the surface. Whether you’re diving locally or exploring exotic sites like those offered by Divebooker.com, having a solid emergency plan could mean the difference between a close call and a tragedy.
Why a Dive EAP Matters
Emergencies happen fast, and panic only worsens the situation. Having a well-thought-out EAP allows divers to act quickly and decisively. It ensures that everyone—divers, surface support, and even nearby personnel—knows their role in an emergency. A good EAP can help reduce response time, improve communication, and potentially save lives.
What to Include in Your Emergency Plan
A complete Dive Emergency Action Plan should be tailored to the dive site and conditions, but here are some essential elements:
Emergency Contact Information: Include the local coast guard, emergency medical services, and the nearest hyperbaric chamber.
Dive Site Details: Exact location, entry and exit points, and GPS coordinates.
Roles and Responsibilities: Who will call for help? Who will administer first aid or oxygen? Who will stay with the injured diver?
First Aid and Oxygen Availability: Know where the kit is and who is trained to use it.
Evacuation Procedure: Include directions to the nearest hospital, and whether transport is by boat, car, or helicopter.
Diver Information Sheet: A list of divers, their certification levels, known medical conditions, and emergency contacts.
When diving off a resort or liveaboard, ask about their emergency procedures and ensure they align with your personal safety expectations. Resorts like Sandals often have EAPs in place, but you should still know your own plan.
Practice Makes Prepared
Just having a plan isn’t enough—it needs to be practiced. Before every dive trip, go over your EAP with your buddy or dive group. Run drills, especially if you're diving in remote locations where help is far away. Even reviewing the plan aloud can build confidence and help the information stick in the event of an emergency.
Planning for the worst doesn't mean you’re expecting it—it means you're ready. When everyone knows the plan, dives become safer, and divers feel more confident knowing they’re prepared.
Happy and safe diving,
The ScubaBlast Team
DAN (Divers Alert Network). “Emergency Action Plan.” https://dan.org/health-medicine/health-resources/planning/emergency-action-plan/
PADI. “Scuba Diving Emergency Preparedness Tips.” https://www.padi.com
NOAA Office of Coast Survey. “GPS Coordinates and Charting Resources.” https://nauticalcharts.noaa.gov
All Star Liveaboards. “Diving Safety Protocols.” https://www.allstarliveaboards.com/
Sandals Resorts. “Scuba Diving at Sandals.” https://www.sandals.com/scuba-diving/