Diver missing near Stephens Island, Marlborough Sounds

The New Zealand Underwater Association would like to extend its support to the teams currently responding to Saturday’s news of an overdue and missing diver north of Stephens Island, Marlborough Sounds. These teams include local police and search & rescue teams, as well as Coastguard and the Police National Dive Squad.

Our thoughts are with all involved and we hope for a positive outcome.

The New Zealand Underwater Association would like to remind those undertaking diving or similar activities on the water of the following important safety messages:
Always dive under a Dive Flag; this needs to be a minimum of 600mmx600mm in size and should ONLY be flown when people are in the water. As a skipper or driver of a vessel you must keep a 200m distance from the Dive Flag or reduce your speed to below 5knots within 200m
Always dive with a dive buddy
Before you scuba dive get certified through professional training from a reputable training agency. If you haven’t dived for a while or a feeling a bit rusty undertake a refresher course from your local dive centre
Are you dive fit? Before you dive get a medical assessment and repeat this at least every 5 years, this is especially important for those diving at depths greater than 3metres
Before you leave the shore check your equipment, and have your scuba gear serviced by a qualified scuba technician at least every 2 years
Before you head out let somebody know where you are going to be diving and when you expect to return
New Zealand Underwater Association is a not-for-profit organisation leading New Zealand’s underwater community in recreational and sporting activities. Its mission is to be the lead organisation for promoting and advocating safe and enjoyable underwater activities in New Zealand.
ENDS

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