Scuba Diving
Simply stated in a concisely understandable manner, Wikipedia defines “scuba diving” as merely “swimming underwater”. Seton Resource Centre offers a broader definition as it describes “scuba diving” as “a diving mode independent of surface supply in which the diver uses open circuit self-contained underwater breathing apparatus”. Scuba divers can breathe even when submerged underwater by carrying a container of compressed gas. The swimming fins attached to the diver’s feet allow the diver to swim underwater. Divers can also move around through a diver propulsion vehicle or “scooter”, or through surface-tethered devices or sleds.
Blue Grotto, Florida
The term “scuba” was initially coined during the World War II period, referring to the oxygen re-breathers used for underwater warfare. Now, “scuba” is widely understood and accepted as an acronym for “self-contained underwater breathing apparatus”. This in-line, open-circuit equipment was invented by Emile Gagnan and Jacques-Yves Cousteau.
Street of Tiran at the Jackson Reef
People engage in scuba diving for various intentions and motivations. Some engage in diving for commercial purposes such as maintenance of large public aquariums. Naval and military duties also propel some soldiers to scuba dive during demolition of ship wrecks, mine clearance and disposal of bombs, and especially during investigation and arrest of illegal divers. Scientists also practice scuba diving as means for their research, experiments, and observation while photographers and media practitioners do it for their photo shoots and media documentaries. But, undeniably, recreational purposes serve as the most dominant motivation. A lot of resorts and tourist shops also offer scuba diving as attraction or promotional package.
Because scuba diving is already considered a recreational activity, it is dominantly self-regulated. It does not have a central major certifying agency or regulatory authority. However, there are already a lot of diving organizations that offer training and certifications for aspiring divers. Most of them also sell or rent diving devices and gears.
