when I took my into to diving NAUI course (Lee Somers 1973) NEVER were we told to dive alone. The buddy diving mantra was pounded into us, as was 1 reg buddy breathing. It wasn't until I looked into tech diving that the "you are your own buddy" concept was introduced to me. I've been diving for a long time and perhaps things/concepts have changed, however, in my opinion adventures are always better when shared with a friend/buddy. AND, when SH_T happens, and it will, it is always good to have some help.
Also sure that NAUI has always stated that ALL certified NAUI divers are fully qualified to dive solo because they are trained as 100% self-sufficient divers from day one. There’s a reason NAUI does NOT have a “solo diver” course. Because if you’re qualified to dive, you’re qualified to dive solo already.
late reply, I just saw this, but Actually no, In the beginning, ANDI and IAND (new nitrox-specific training agencies) were the only ones who taught its use. Starting with IAND that is now IANTD, It started with Dick Rutkowski, the former dive supervisor for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), formed the International Association of Nitrox Divers (IAND) in 1985 to teach nitrox to recreational divers. This program was developed through NOAA during his tenure. American Nitrox Divers International (or ANDI) was founded by Ed Betts and Dick Rutkowski in 1988 and they ended operations in 2000. NAUI refers to themself as the first commercialized recreational organization to teach nitrox, yet that is a misnomer.
always like what you have to say!! Pearls of wisdom in each presentation. Best advice my father & mother ever gave me "always ask why?"
when I took my into to diving NAUI course (Lee Somers 1973) NEVER were we told to dive alone. The buddy diving mantra was pounded into us, as was 1 reg buddy breathing.
It wasn't until I looked into tech diving that the "you are your own buddy" concept was introduced to me. I've been diving for a long time and perhaps things/concepts have changed, however, in my opinion adventures are always better when shared with a friend/buddy. AND, when SH_T happens, and it will, it is always good to have some help.
Also sure that NAUI has always stated that ALL certified NAUI divers are fully qualified to dive solo because they are trained as 100% self-sufficient divers from day one. There’s a reason NAUI does NOT have a “solo diver” course. Because if you’re qualified to dive, you’re qualified to dive solo already.
Wasn’t NAUI the first agency to embrace and teach Nitrox? 🤔
late reply, I just saw this, but Actually no, In the beginning, ANDI and IAND (new nitrox-specific training agencies) were the only ones who taught its use. Starting with IAND that is now IANTD, It started with Dick Rutkowski, the former dive supervisor for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), formed the International Association of Nitrox Divers (IAND) in 1985 to teach nitrox to recreational divers. This program was developed through NOAA during his tenure. American Nitrox Divers International (or ANDI) was founded by Ed Betts and Dick Rutkowski in 1988 and they ended operations in 2000. NAUI refers to themself as the first commercialized recreational organization to teach nitrox, yet that is a misnomer.