Safe Diving?

[matt t.]

I guess a "safe" dive IS different for everyone. As we progress in our diving and diving education the meaning of "safe" may or may not change. I've seen some questionable stuff on the local area "rec" charters by experienced divers, like free ascents (no lift bags, just kick for the surface 150 yds off of the boat  ???) by guys that got "lost" on a 70 ft dive, lots of "solo" diving right after a dive plan was agreed upon (not regular buddies), camera men that are "super silters", and the list goes on. It seems that a lot of divers just don't get "IT". I'd have to say that "AWARENESS" is a key ingredient in safe diving. It doesn't matter how deep you are or what you're diving on, you need to pay attention to your buddy, monitor your time, depth, air pressure, and position in the water on every dive (in short follow the "PLAN"). It also doesn't hurt to know how to get back the the ascent/descent line ;D. Like they used to tell us in boot camp "perfect practice makes perfect". I and my buddies are FAR from perfect, but we're out there trying every dive. Just my $.02. Take it for what it's worth .