In an effort to minimize misunderstanding and to ensure smooth communication no matter what language you speak, the
member organizations of the Recreational Scuba Training Council (RSTC) – which
includes IDEA, PADI, PDIC, SDI, SSI, and the YMCA – have recently approved a standardized set of underwater hand
signals. Conveniently, they have produced a clear (PDF) outlining the most important hand
signals to know. Initially, I was annoyed that I knew all the signals. For some reason, I wanted to discover some
new, innovative signal that would revolutionize the way I dive. Alas, it did not happen. Upon further reflection,
however, I was pleased that I knew all the signals, because it proved once again that But don’t ask my wife. [Via Dive News Wire]
Unless
you’re a dolphin, a Scientologist, or have some kind of underwater communication device, there is no easy way to communicate
with your dive buddy underwater. Consequently, we resort to the next best thing, which usually involves gesturing in
some fashion that makes perfect sense to you, but that suggests to your buddy that you’re narc’ed.
I am a
genius that I am more capable of writing for Divester than any of you that I
am at least semi-competent.
RSTC Develops Standardized List of Underwater Hand Signals
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