Researcher Profile: David Doolette

A research physiologist in the biomedical research department at the U.S. Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) and an assistant professor in the anesthesiology department at Duke University School of Medicine, David J. Doolette, Ph.D., is also an advanced technical and cave diver, an educator and a public speaker.

A generic photo of underwater reeds

Choosing Safety

What does a culture of dive safety look like in today’s recreational diving? Read one expert’s thoughts as he dissects an ideal safety culture.

Three tech divers explore a dark cave

Don’t Blame the Dive Operator

Dive operators are a huge component of the safety culture. It’s up to them to help inexperienced divers, keep staff trained and ensure experienced divers remain safe.

Bald diver approaches coral with flashlight

A Culture of Active Risk Management

Risk management is important to ensure we all have fun in our chosen sports safety, and this encompasses a culture of safety. Read more.

Group of divers approach a coral reef

The Social Psychology of Safe Diving

A culture of dive safety is incredibly important to keep everyone safe and make the sport truly enjoyable. But pressures from other people can diminish someone’s personal responsibilities. Read more.

Two divers give the OK symbol to each other

Emergency Ascents: Managing the Risks

Emergency ascents are used to avoid any adverse events during a dive. Divers are trained in standard emergency ascent procedures, but these skills must be routinely practiced. Read more.

Diver makes an emergency ascent with bubbles flying all about

Graduation Day

At a graduation ceremony, a scuba instructor, who is also a DAN member, had to unexpectedly put their skills into action. Quick thinking helped saved a life.

Three EMTs lead a stretcher into the back of an ambulance

Marine Envenomations: Vertebrates

Envenomations can be caused by marine vertebrates who are equipped with toxin-based defense systems. When you know how to prepare proper first aid, you can hasten recovery and prevent complications.

Flock of stingrays float above the sea floor

Marine Envenomations: Invertebrates

Are you prepared to deal with an envenomation from an invertebrate? Learn more about common invertebrate envenomations and how to prevent and treat them.

Blue-ringed octopus hugs a rock tightly

Marine Envenomations: Jellyfish & Hydroid Stings

When jellyfish and hydroid stings happen, what are you doing to do? Read more about these kinds of preventable marine envenomations.

Blue-green jellyfish on black background