I. PURPOSE:

The course develops the minimum skills and knowledge for cavern diving, and describes the dangers involved with cave diving. Planning, environment, procedures, techniques, problem solving, and other specialized needs of cavern diving are covered. Problem solving in cavern diving include, but are not limited to: body positioning (trim), buoyancy control, emergency procedures, line following, and propulsion techniques. Accident analysis forms the basis of this learning experience. Special emphasis on the unique environment includes silting, entanglement, disorientation, and equipment modifications. Cavern diving is in no way intended to provide instruction for cave diving.

II. COURSE DURATION:

Approximately two (2) days

III. PREREQUISITE:

Basic scuba diver certification (Rescue Course Recommended) or the equivalent

IV. RECOMMENDED TEXTS:

NSS Cavern Diving Manual
Blue Print to Survival (By Sheck Exley)

V. LECTURE:

At least seven (7) hours covering these topics: NSS policy for cavern diving, environment, accident analysis, psychological considerations, equipment, body control, techniques, and accident prevention procedures.

VI. LAND DRILLS:

1. Guide line use
2. Following line with no visibility
3. Sharing air
4. Emergency procedures

VII. CAVERN DIVES:

Three (3) cavern dives to be conducted in two (2) different caverns and to include:
1. S-drill (Share air and equipment check to begin every dive)

2. Demonstrate buoyancy compensator use and body positioning via weighting and distribution

3. Demonstrate specialized propulsion techniques

4 Guideline use

5. Reel use

6. Explore cavern

VIII. UNITS:

1. Daylight and free ascent zone of cavern

2. 130 ft. linear distance from surface

3. Maximum depth not to exceed 70 ft.

4. Tank (80.0 cf minimum)

5. Single 5 ft. hose regulator with submersible pressure gauge, octopus second stage, and power inflator for buoyancy compensator

6. Exposure suit (wet or dry)

7. Buoyancy compensator

8. Submersible repetitive dive tables
or computer

9. Slate and pencil

10. Weight (as required)

11. Two (2) battery powered submersible lights

12. Knife (recommended arm or chest mounted)

13. Also, one (1) per team: watch, depth gauge, reel

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