July 04, 2009

Responsible Diving & Snorkeling: From Head to Toe

The animals and plants that inhabit the coral reef exist in a delicately balanced world. Stress from repeated physical impact by divers, snorkelers, boats and anchors, as well as increasing pollution and disease, can upset that delicate balance and threaten the very survival of the fragile coral.

	Use your head - Please tell your customers about the area where they will be diving and snorkeling. Let them know what types of animals and plants they are likely to encounter. Remind them that they are about to enter a delicately balanced world which can be easily damaged, or preserved, by their behavior.
	Use your eyes - Encourage your divers and snorkelers to take the time to observe the site upon entering the water. Have them notice not only what creatures are there, but how they are interacting with each other. Are they about to interrupt a fish cleaning station? Will their actions cause unnecessary stress to a damselfish guarding its nest? Remind them to take notice of the currents so as not to be carried into a coral head.
	Use your body - Point out to your customers that it is necessary for them to always be aware of their body position while in the water. Show them proper dive posture, with their feet remaining slightly elevated above their heads. Remind them to maintain proper buoyancy control. Encourage divers to use a minimal amount of weights. Make sure that all their equipment is carried or secured in a way that will prevent contact with the coral, especially gauges, camera equipment and underwater lights. Advise novice snorkelers to partially inflate their vests to keep from drifting down on top of coral.
	Use your hands - for swimming only. Remind your divers and snorkelers about the golden rule of responsible diving: Look, but don’t touch! Arms should be kept at the sides of the body. Discourage the wearing of gloves (people are less likely to touch strange objects with their bare hands). If they will be in a Sanctuary Preservation Area or an Ecological Reserve be sure to advise them of the "no take" regulations. If they will be attempting to catch lobster or fish in a permitted area, emphasize the importance of not touching any coral or live rocks in their search.
	Use your feet - carefully. Advise your divers and snorkelers that careless contact from swim fins is among the leading causes of injury to corals at popular dive sites. Remind them that their finned feet are considerably longer in length than they are used to, and that they should never stand on the coral or rocks at the reef, even if they do not appear to be alive. Demonstrate to your snorkelers how they can float in a seated position at the surface if they need to adjust their masks. Remind your divers and snorkelers that if they need to stand in order to adjust their equipment, they should return to the boat. Virtually all of the coral reef systems around the world are at risk. The reefs of the Florida Keys are no exception. Irresponsible behavior can easily lead to their destruction. Likewise, through proper use and management, they can be preserved for future generations to enjoy.

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