RDU Flashcards
(8 cards)
name the components of the RDU scuba gear and its specifications and who carries the gear
Components:
- deflator/inflator hose and buttons (deflator on top)
- pressure gauge
- release valves (3)
- first stage
- second stage
- BC
- tank
- sheers
- knife
Specifications:
- Din fitting for first stage
- venturi valve set to negative to prevent free flow of air
Lr units have two RDU’s, baywatch
When do we use an RDU and what are the operational procedures
- used during a missing swimmer incident
- set the LKP buoy
- LR Divers, Deckhand Diver, and/or the first arriving URRU diver may complete ONE initial search
- after quick initial a coordinated dive is established
- always predetermine when search is completed and when to return to the boat (for safety)
- 500psi is lowest amount of air to surface with
Describe a Star pattern search
Best search pattern
- Descend at the LKP.
- Choose number of kicks based on visibility.
- Kick in initial direction to your pre-determined point.
- Turn 180 degrees.
- Kick in opposite direction doubling your original number of kicks.
- Turn 180 degrees.
- Kick in original direction back to the LKP.
- Turn 90 degrees.
- Repeat process, ending at the LKP.
- You can repeat at 45 degrees off to each side.
Describe an expanding search pattern
Best used if LKP buoy is reasonably accurate
- decend at LKP
- utilize a navigator and an observer
- decide number of kicks
- less viz = less kicks
- perform the same number of kicks for two 90 degree turns and keep adding a set of kicks as the square expands (1 - 2 - 4 - 6 etc)
what are the benefits of a front placed bc
- easy access if issue arrises
- less tanglement
- ease of swimming
- sit in car seat
what should you always want to hold away from you when checking RDU air supply
- pressure gauge
Name the three dump valves on the RDU
- pull the inflator hose down and squeeze BC
- red pull tab
- depress button on inflation hose holding above head
Safety guidelines for RDU
• Equalize early and often
• Never hold your breath on compressed air
• Breathe normally
• Dive with a buddy
• Surface with at least 500 PSI
• Be cognizant of your depth
• Do an equipment safety check before entering the water
• Confirm dive plan with supervisor before entering
water
• Predetermine specifically when the dive will be
complete
