Dive skill video: freeflow regulator breathing

When a regulator starts freeflowing underwater, it can be startling for even experienced divers. That constant rush of bubbles and air can trigger anxiety, but as dive professionals, we need to demonstrate that this situation is manageable with proper technique. Mastering freeflow regulator breathing isn't just about passing your professional evaluation – it's about showing students that equipment issues can be handled calmly and effectively.

🎬 Check out our video demonstration below to see this skill performed , then read on for the breakdown!

There are various methods to breathe from a freeflowing regulator, and this is only one of them! Keep in mind that you might see this skill done differently.

Why this skill is critical

Regulators can freeflow for various reasons – extremely cold water, sand in the mechanism, or mechanical issues. While this is quite rare, when this happens, air is being depleted from your tank at an accelerated rate, making proper management essential. A diver who panics in this situation might make a rapid ascent or run out of air completely. By contrast, a diver who handles it properly can safely continue breathing while executing a controlled ascent or switch to an alternate air source.

Breaking it down step by step

Step 1: Recognize and assess the situation

The first step when demonstrating this skill:

• Stay calm and control your breathing rate

• Signal that you have a freeflowing regulator

• Position yourself properly before attempting to breathe from it

  
  

Step 2: Position the regulator correctly

How you handle the freeflowing regulator makes all the difference:

• Rotate the second stage so the purge button faces downward

• Position the regulator at the side of your mouth (not centered) while extending the mouthpiece to open it wider

• Keep your head tilted slightly to direct excess air away

  
  

Step 3: Breathing technique

This is the crucial part of the demonstration:

• Take slow, shallow breaths rather than deep ones

• Allow excess air to escape from the side of your mouth

  
  
  
  

Step 4: Maintain control

While breathing from the freeflowing regulator:

• Keep your buoyancy stable (challenging with the extra bubbles)

• Maintain awareness of your depth and position

• Monitor your pressure gauge frequently as air is depleting rapidly

Teaching tips for dive professionals

1. Practice in shallow water first: Master this skill in confined water where you can stand if needed.

2. Control your buoyancy challenge: The extra air from the freeflow creates additional buoyancy – practice compensating for this by adjusting your BCD appropriately.

3. Be mindful of air consumption: During practice and demonstrations, remember that a freeflowing regulator depletes your air supply quickly. Monitor your pressure gauge carefully.

4. Perfect the side-of-mouth position: The exact placement of the regulator is critical. Too centered and you'll struggle with excess water; too far to the side and you won't get enough air.

5. Emphasize the calm aspect: Students will be watching not just your technique but your demeanor. Demonstrate confidence throughout to show this is a manageable situation.

   
   

Remember that as dive professionals, we're not just showing technical proficiency – we're demonstrating that unexpected situations underwater can be handled without panic. Your calm, methodical approach to a freeflowing regulator shows students that with proper training, even equipment malfunctions don't need to end a dive abruptly or dangerously.

🌊 Stay tuned for our next dive skill breakdown, and remember – mastering emergency skills makes everyday diving that much more enjoyable! 🤿