AboutJesse Scott Expertise I can help you with questions about what to expect when learning how to SCUBA dive; how to select a good instructor and dive shop; and how to begin diving after you have been trained. I can help out with gear questions. I am always happy to discuss topics you learned in training but would like to know more detail. I can recommend additional training and books on SCUBA diving. I can discuss NC wreck diving also. I can also discuss what`s involved in learning becoming more involved in the sport and being a rescue diver, dive master, or instructor. NOTE!! I cannot answer medical questions because I am not a doctor.
Experience I am an SSI Master Instructor and a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor. I have over 500 dives in a wide variety of diving environments and scenarios. I have been diving for 10 years. I also teach numerous specialties including Nitrox.
Organizations PADI, SSI, NSS-CDS, DAN, NACD, PSI
Education/Credentials PADI OWSI (Open Water, Advanced OW, Rescue, Divemaster)
SSI MI (OW, Advanced OW; Night, Deep, Wreck, Boat, Nitrox, Navigation, Night, Computer, Search and Recovery, Dry Suit, Advanced Buoyancy Specialties)
Emergency First Response CPR and First Aid Instructor
DAN Diving Emergency Management Provider and Instructor
PSI Visual Tank Inspector
NACD, NSS-CDS Cavern Diver
TDI Advanced Nitrox and Decompression diver
Awards and Honors SSI Master Instructor
SSI Gold 500 Instructor
SSI Gold 500 Diver
SSI Century Instructor
SSI Century Diver
Question I went through the initial PADI training class however when it came time for the removal of the mask underwater, I wasn't able to successfully complete that portion. It's safe to say I panicked. The instructors allowed me to continue and I was able to do everything else required. I'm able to go underwater with the regulator and no mask at all, it's when I have to take the mask off and the water flows in that I get stressed combined with sucking water up my nose. Any tips on how to overcome panic mode for the mask clearing exercise??
Answer Hello Jessica:
You are not alone. This issue comes up frequently for all instructors. I may be able to help you with some advice. Interestingly, the technique for flooding the mask as part of the mask clearing skill is just as important as getting the water out. It is vital that be able to retain your composure in the event of an accidental mask flood so that you don't panic and rush to the surface or suck up some water down at 65 feet.
When I ask to flood the mask, I instruct the student to gently and slowly break the seal at the top of the mask skirt and just let the water trickle in a little at a time. This way it is not such a big surprise and if the water happens to be cold it's not such a shock. Take your time and just let the mask fill as slow as your are comfortable. Once full, you can then completely remove it, replace it, and clear, or just clear it depending on which skill the instructor wants you to perform. Since you are already comfortable with the mask off, filling it with water slowly should be easier for you.
After you have done that a few times and begin feeling more comfortable, practice speeding up the flood. After several practice runs, you should be able to even reach a point where you can simple pull the mask off quickly without a panic.
Practice in the shallow end so you know you can always just stand up if you are uncomfortable. Be sure to practice in the deep end once you are comfortable.
