Re: [PSUBS-MAILIST] Speaking of scuba....

["Captain Nemo" <vulcania@interpac.net>]

Hi Chris,

Two money / time saving options: Many PADI schools feature a "short course"
for people who have knowledge and experience;  and, you might find someone
in the classifieds who's selling their mask, snorkel, fins, and such.

When I started diving in the  60's, I was already into skin diving, but
wasn't aware of any NAUI or PADI schools in my area. I first went SCUBA
diving with friends; the training was basically how to don and ditch, buddy
breathe, and an avisory against holding my breath or surfacing faster than
my bubbles.  My first dive was at Monastery Beach near Monterey, California;
a site that later became so notorious for fatalities in rapidly variable
conditions it earned the nickname "Mortuary Beach".  I had over 200 dives by
the time I got around to "getting legal".   Looking back I realize I was
lucky I never had an emergency, but in those days we just didn't know any
better.

Now, I see that good training is a worthwhile investment from the standpoint
that,  even if it only saves your life once, it was a bargain,  no matter
what it cost.

Very best regards,

Pat