Diving Gear FAQs
Q: What is the first recorded attempt
at underwater breathing?
A: The first record of assisted underwater breathing
comes to us from the Greeks. And true to form, it comes in the form
of a legend. The Persians were planning to invade the Greeks, and they
had amassed a large armada to launch their surprise attack. They captured
a Greek named Scyllis and brought him on board the flagship of King
Xerxes. When Scyllis learned of the impending invasion he jumped overboard.
According to the legend he used a reed to breathe while hiding from
the Persians in daylight, and then cut the ships free of their anchors
that night, scattering the invading armada and allowing the Greeks time
to prepare.
Q: Who is responsible for the development
of scuba diving?
A: Jacques-Yves Cousteau, a French explorer and scientist
is responsible for much of the advancement in scuba diving, and from
transitioning it from a military tactic into a commercial and recreational
pursuit. He not only made many of the advances that allow modern divers
to function, but he recorded countless hours of footage on his dives,
raising public awareness of marine life.
Q: What are the requirements for me to
begin scuba diving?
A: The exact requirements vary by state,
or country. Many areas will allow you to go on a guided tour without
becoming a licensed diver, but in order to dive on your own, or without
a licensed diving instructor supervising you, there is an exam that
must be passed. The exam usually features both written and skills portions,
similar to the exam for a driver’s license. Once you are licensed,
you can acquire additional certifications, such as for teaching, hazmat
diving, or other applications.