Night diving can be a great way to explore a new underwater world. Because many marine animals are nocturnal, the underwater environment changes at night. It is important to prepare yourself for this experience. Before you dive, make sure you know what equipment you need and how to select a site.
Bioluminescence
When you turn off your scuba flashlight and wave your arms in water, you can witness the wonders of night diving bioluminescence. The blue light from bioluminescent plankton will glow as your arms move around the water. This occurs when certain chemicals become vibrated and create light.
Many marine species use bioluminescence for communication and to attract mates. Syllid fireworms for example live under the seafloor in mucus tube and then return to the surface when the full moon is over.
Take care
If you have never dived at Night before, you need to be careful. These precautions include not being exposed to too much light and not using dive lights. These lights can affect the night vision of other divers. You may also be at risk of developing cardiac abnormalities by exposing yourself to the lights.
In addition to limiting your light exposure, you must also use a buddy team. Night diving is more challenging without a partner. Your buddy can help identify potential subjects. Practice hand signals with your partner prior to you go on the dive. Your buddy should be able to correctly use the light. Avoid shining the light directly on subjects. Instead, aim it at their hands.
Equipment
Special equipment is required for night diving. First, ensure you have backup lights. This type is often small enough to fit in your pocket. A modeling light is a pinpoint-light attached to a flasher. In the past, divers used chemical glow sticks to find their way back to the boat after the dive, but environmental concerns have led to a switch to battery-operated signal lights with different colored lenses.
The second is a quality dive light, and a compasse. Also, you will need to be able to communicate with other divers. It is also important to be able to read and use the gauges on your diving rig. You should also feel comfortable diving at nights. You should immediately get out if you feel unsafe. Whether the reason is lack of training, bad weather, or water conditions, if you're not comfortable, you may end up in a dangerous situation. Avoid substances that affect your ability to judge.
Choosing a dive site
If you want to dive at night, it is important to choose a site that is calm and shallow. Do not complicate your first dive by carrying extra gear or going deeper than normal. You will feel more comfortable and have a better night dive. You can start out by diving in the twilight and go deep later on.
It is important to do your research before you decide on the night dive site. There are many things you should consider. If you've never done night diving before, you'll want to choose a site that has a good history of diving at night. You can map the dive site during the day and get oriented. It's easier and warmer to dry your equipment during the day.
Choosing a night dive buddy
It can be hard to find a night-diving buddy. The water changes quickly after sunset, so you must slow down to avoid hitting anything. Night diving is required to be more comfortable in the water. Being cold can make it uncomfortable and unpleasant.
Your night dive buddy should discuss your dive plan and any special requirements before you go. This includes how you plan to complete the dive. It is also important to discuss how you will communicate. This includes using hand signals and light signs.