Alert Diver Category: Expert Opinions

The physical fitness requirements for diving depend on a number of factors. How can you evaluate your physical fitness? Learn more about a practical approach.

Research in perfluorocarbons (PFCs) is raising hopes that it could be a more effective adjunct treatment for decompression sickness. Hear from our experts about the use of PFCs in treatments.

As marijuana legalization increases throughout the United States, it is important to see how marijuana use could potentially impact a diver’s abilities.

Dysbaric osteonecrosis (DON) is the destruction of bone tissue in the long bones, hips and shoulders associated with diving and compressed-air work. Generally considered to be the result of circulation disruption, osteonecrosis can occur without exposure to pressure changes. Learn more.

CPR is a vital tool in saving a life, but the guidelines change about every five years. DAN experts discuss the changing CPR requirements and techniques. Learn more about how to perform life-saving CPR.

In-water recompression (IWR) is being used to great success with fishing divers and pearl divers, but could apply to recreational divers, too, as a way to quickly treat decompression sickness. Learn more about this course of treatment.

A culture of safety in diving is incredibly important as it keeps incidents and accidents down, and fosters a learning culture. Read more about the importance of putting safety first, and how it could change the industry and sport.

Breath-hold diving after scuba diving may lead to decompression sickness in extreme breath-hold diving. Read more about this link with breath-hold diving.

Even well-experienced divers are still subject to risk, as many incidents are caused by them going beyond their experiences and training. Read more from our experts on the measurement of experience.

Hyperbaric chambers are often the definitive treatment for decompression illness. There are also several different types of chambers, not all are suitable for treating decompression illness. Read more about hyperbaric chambers, treatments and availability.