Scubaism

Divers Alert Network has a new programme called Diving Emergency Specialist (DES) that rewards divers for continuing their education in advanced diver emergency aid specialties.

To earn this recognition, divers must hold current certifications in:

• Oxygen First Aid for Scuba Diving Injuries (or equivalent)

Plus three of the following:

• Advanced Oxygen First Aid for Scuba Diving Injuries (or equivalent)
• First Aid for Hazardous Marine Life Injuries (or equivalent)
• AEDs for Scuba Diving (or equivalent)
• On-Site Neurological Assessment for Divers (or equivalent)
• Remote Emergency Medical Oxygen (REMO2™)

If you have taken a Diving Emergency Management Provider class, it must have included Advanced O2 and that must be reflected on your certification card.

You must also hold:

• a rescue-level certification or higher with your training agency; and
• current CPR and first aid certifications.

This program is open to any diver.

To receive this recognition, submit your application directly to DAN Training with photocopies of all the required certifications and the USD$20 application fee.

DES recognition includes a:

• plastic Diving Emergency Specialist certification card;
• DES certificate; and
• DES shoulder patch.

As a DES recognized diver, you will also receive:

• invitations to preview future DAN Online Seminars before they are released to public at no charge; and
• a coupon good for 10% off oxygen units or accessories.

Sportdiver.com adds that the DES programme runs from June 1 – Dec. 31, 2007. During the Quest, when DAN is notified of a diver’s achievement of DES, that diver will receive a specially designed T-shirt and ballcap prize package. In addition, the diver will automatically be entered in a drawing for a DAN Gift Certificate worth $250*.