Scuba Sets - Alternative Air Sources
In situations where a diver is out of air, it is strongly recommended that you make use of the Alternative Air Source to help out. An Alternative Air Source is an extra second stage or regulator with an Air Source, in addition to your primary regulator. In emergencies where you or your buddy run out of air, you can switch to the Alternative Air Source, so that you can make an emergency ascent while breathing normally.
There are two types of Alternative Air Source: systems for which you need a buddy and systems that can be used independently.
Buddy-Dependent Systems
With these systems, you switch to the Alternative Air Source of your buddy when you are out of air. Conversely, your buddy will make use of your Alternative Air Source when he or she is in trouble. There are two kinds of Alternative Air Source which require a buddy:
- Octopus
This is an extra second stage, which is connected to the first stage of the primary regulator. In general, an Octopus has a longer hose than the primary second stage, so that your buddy can use it more easily.
- Octo-Inflator
This system combines the features of an inflator with those of an Alternative Air Source. It is attached to the hose of the BCD. With this type of Alternative Air Source, the air donor generally gives his own primary second stage to the out-of-air diver and switches to the Alternative Air Source himself.
Independent Systems
You can use these systems on your own when you run out of air, without the help of a buddy.
- Pony Bottle
This is a small Diving Cylinder with its own regulator. A special bracket attaches the pony bottle to your primary Diving Cylinder.
- Spare Air Bottle
This is a small cylinder with its own regulator attached to it. It contains just enough air to reach the surface. It is usually kept in a special holster on the BCD.
Another rescue technique that can be used in out-of-air situations is Buddy Breathing. This technique requires two divers to share one single regulator. However, this is not as safe as using an Alternative Air Source, since Buddy Breathing is a much more complicated procedure.
No matter what type of Alternative Air Source you might choose, you should always make sure that it is easily recognizable. One way to do this, is by using recognizable colors, which are markedly different from the colors of your primary Air Source. You should also make sure that your Alternative Air Source is attached in such a way that it will not hang loose and that it will stay in place, while at the same time, it can be used easily and quickly when needed.
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