Buoyancy Control Device
A buoyancy control device (BCD) is an integral part of your scuba gear. It is a vest-like apparatus similar to a life jacket, with pockets to hold weights and other items. It also hold the scuba tank and has a special bladder to hold air, so that you can control your buoyancy in the water.
Regulators
Regulators are necessary for diving, as they are what supplies the breathing gas, or air, necessary to dive underwater. The first stage of the regulator reduces the pressure coming from the scuba tank, and the second stage delivers the gas to the mouthpiece in an easy-to-breath manner.
Suits and Skins
Scuba wetsuits, dry suits and skins protect you from exposure to the elements. They come a variety of thicknesses and styles for use in warm waters and cold. They also help protect you from scratches and abrasions when diving.
Dive Computer
Dive computers come in a variety of styles, from a console that attaches to a D-ring on your BCD to those that resemble a wristwatch. They contain decompression meters, gauge the duration and depths of the dive, and monitor when to change breathing tanks on deep dives.
Mask and Fins
A mask is necessary to see underwater, and fins help to propel you through the water more quickly without using as much energy.
Snorkel
A snorkel helps a diver breath while treading the surface of the water. If your regulators are not in your mouth, your snorkel should be so that you can breathe in case of rough waters while at the surface.
Article Written By Michelle Nesbit
Michelle Nesbit started her writing career in 1999, when she wrote "The Title Searcher's Handbook." Nesbit has written for The Chattanoogan, Healthmad and several clients who secure her services as a ghostwriter. Nesbit's background includes licenses in Insurance, certification as a Rescue and Technical Scuba Diver, Underwater Photographer, and a clinical hypnotherapist. Nesbit is currently completing studies as a clinical nutritionist.
