Ditching Weights:
How Many Steps?
How many steps does it take to successfully ditch your weights? It depends on what you are wearing. These drawings compare the number of steps required when using a well-designed integrated weight system to those required when wearing a conventional weight belt.
Bear in mind: The fewer steps (and hands) required, the more likely a diver is to be able to successfully ditch weights in an emergency.
| Integrated Weights | Weight Belt | |
| 1 |
|
|
|
Located and grasp |
Located and grasp |
|
| 2 |
|
|
|
Pull down or out as |
Using both hands, |
|
| 3 |
|
|
|
Drop weight |
Using both hands, remove weight belt, taking care not to get it caught on the tank or other equipment |
|
| 4 |
|
|
|
|
Hold belt as far away |
|
| 5 |
|
|
|
|
Drop weight belt |
Things to be Aware Of
- A properly weighted diver who is using an integrated weight system may only need to drop one weight pocket in order to initiate an ascent. If so, this may require just one hand (and may be a lifesaver if only one hand is available). Dropping just one weight pocket may have a further benefit in that, in so far as the diver will retain two thirds of his weight, his ascent rate will be better controlled.
- Dropping a weight belt requires more than just hitting the quick-release buckle. You need to use both hands to carefully remove the belt and hold it completely away from the body. Otherwise there is a risk that the belt will get caught on the tank boot or other equipment. Reportedly, more than one dead diver has been found with his weight belt unfastened, yet still hung up on other gear.
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