This article explains the Standard Procedure for Rescue of a Surface-Supported Diver. It covers CPR, identification and rescue of a diver who has been lost. It is best to get a full certification before trying a diver rescue. Then, you will know how to save the lives of other divers in an emergency. It also discusses the importance of locating the victim as well as performing CPR on an unconscious diver.
Standard procedure to rescue a surface-supplied diver
Rescuers must immediately respond to any difficulty a surface-supplied diver may be experiencing and transport him or her safely to safety. This is usually a diving bell or area where the diver cannot drown and where first aid can be administered. There are instances when it is not possible to reach the diver via the bell. Rescue divers will need to adapt their response to the situation.
The first step in rescue is to secure the diver's umbilicals. The diver should exit the bell by the side of the bell where the umbilical enters. The surface tender should then follow a diver's umbilical from the bell. Depending on the type of bell, the diver may also be supplied through the individual umbilicals inside the bell. To avoid snagging the umbilicals, they must be secured.
The diving supervisor and the diver's tender should provide instructions to rescuers. A standby diver might perform other tasks while a diver's life is saved. However, they must be able provide emergency help to the diver if necessary. While performing this procedure, it is important to keep in constant physical and/or audio contact with the diver.
Identifying a lost diver
It is not easy to identify a diver who has disappeared from the water. However, there are several ways to do so. The first thing to do is contact the local authorities. The case involved a diver who was reported missing in Mukilteo (Washington) on June 17. Police and fire departments responded to this call. Coast Guard divers and sheriff's officers searched the area. However, they were unable to find Korompis and his partner.
Another option for finding a lost diver is to use a MOB device. This device sends out a distress message using an underwater radio frequency. However, the device only works if nearby vessels receive the signal. This device is highly recommended, but it is not always practical. Some boats do not have AIS technology. They will not be able find a lost diver. SAR teams will still be able to assist the diver if there is an AIS signal on the vessel.
CPR performed on an unresponsive diver
CPR is an attempt to revive a diver if he or she stops breathing. To open the airway, slide your hand beneath the diver's arm. Or reach up to the diver and hold their breathing equipment. Then pinch the nose of your diver and gently roll him or her toward you. Give two rescue breaths if breathing stops. Repeat the process two to three more times.
It is important not to try to recover the bell from the diver's mouth during CPR. This could cause blood to pool. Continue rescue breathing until the diver regains consciousness. This may require transferring the diver to a decompression chamber on deck. CPR can be complicated for unresponsive divers, but it is necessary.
You can use positive buoyancy to bring the diver to safety if you are able to see his pulse. This will enable you to assess the condition of the diver, and determine if he requires rescue breaths. You can alternate rescue breaths with 30 chest compressions if the diver isn't breathing. Alternate your breathing pattern for no more than 30 seconds.