Optional Skills

Depending on time and logistics of your area, your instructor may decide to perform these optional surface and underwater skills.

• Surface Skills: Optional surface skills include:
  • Cramp relief
  • Tired diver towing
  • Removal and replacement of the scuba equipment and the weight system
  • Removal and replacement of the weight system
• Underwater Skills: Optional underwater skills include the following.
  • SMB Deployment: Your instructor will stay close by while you perform this skill. A demonstration will be performed before you attempt the skill. While hovering, you will deploy your SMB, tie off the line at 5 meters/15 feet, and simulate a safety stop.
  • Controlled emergency swimming ascent (CESA): This skill:
    • Simulates having no gas supply and no buddy.
    • Can be completed on any dive after open water dive 1.
    • Is performed at a maximum depth of 9–12 meters/30–40 feet.
    • Is performed with the regulator staying in your mouth.