Rescue Diver

Why PADI Rescue Diver?

Rewarding and fun – that best describes the PADI Rescue Diver course. This course will expand your knowledge and experience level: Rescue Divers learn to look beyond themselves and consider the safety and well-being of other divers. Although this course is serious, it is an enjoyable way to build your confidence. This course is also available through PADI eLearning so you can take the class portion at your own pace. Please inquire with us for details. You also may be able to earn college credits by taking this course.

What qualifications do I need to start?

• You can enroll in the Rescue Diver Course as a certified Open Water Diver (or have a qualifying certification from another training organization) and participate in the Rescue Diver knowledge development and rescue training sessions, in confined water only, while working on your Advanced Open Water Diver certification.

• To participate in the rescue training sessions in open water, and to participate in the open water rescue scenarios, you must be certified as a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or have a qualifying certification from another training organization.

• Minimum age: 15 years old (12 for PADI Junior Rescue Diver)

• Successful completion of a sanctioned CPR program within the past 24 months. The Emergency First Response Primary Care (CPR) and Secondary Care (First Aid) courses meet these requirements.

What will I do?

Rescue Diver training will prepare you to prevent problems and, if necessary, manage dive emergencies. During the class and in-water sessions, you’ll cover: 

• Self-rescue and diver stress 

• Missing diver procedures

• Emergency oxygen delivery systems

• Surfacing the unconscious diver

• Dive first aid

• In-water rescue breathing protocols

• Swimming and non-swimming rescue techniques  

• Egress (exits)

• Emergency management and equipment  

• First aid procedures for pressure related accidents

• Panicked diver response  

• Dive accident scenarios

• Underwater problems

The PADI Rescue Diver course allows you time to practice your skills in the pool before going to the open water. It also allows you to learn about your own personal diving limits and get introduced to oxygen equipment. You will learn how to think as a rescue diver to insure your own safety in an emergency.

How long will it take?

• Recommended Course Hours: 25

• Minimum Open Water Training: mastery of 10 skills and 2 realistic scenario practices over one or two days

What will I need?

• PADI Rescue Diver Crew-Pak (includes required pocket mask)

• PADI Rescue Diver DVD

• PIC Certification Card

Enhance the Course?

A great way to enhance this already awesome course is to add on the Emergency Oxygen Provider Specialty Course certification. Please ask about this additional training and be even more prepared for a diving emergency.