Course Overview:  This course trains divers in the knowledge and skills needed to manage risks and effectively handle limited in-water problems and diving emergencies. Topics that are covered within this course are assists, transports, surface rescues and rescues from depth involving both boat and shore based divers. This course is a recommended prerequisite for Master Scuba Diver and a required prerequisite for Assistant Instructor, Divemaster, and Instructor certifications. Upon successful completion of this course, graduates are considered competent to engage in open water diving activities and perform assists and rescues when diving situations dictate their use, provided that the diving activities and areas dived approximate those of training.


Course Prerequisites: Students must be 15 years old and hold a basic open water rating from a nationally recognized agency for scuba diver certification. First Aid and CPR certification from an accredited certifying body are preferred; if students don’t posses this rating, certification will be issued upon successful completion of this course. Students are required to complete and sign liability and medical waivers.


Course Schedule: This course is taught from April to early November (dependant on water temperature). Students who possess drysuits allow this course to be taught through the winter months.


Course Length: The rescue diver certification can be completed in as short as a three-day weekend, but can be tailored to the student’s timeline. The course is broken down into two parts:


Classroom: made up of home study and classroom setting that includes first aid and CPR initial or refresher certification. A written test will be administered; minimum passing score is 75%.Open Water Dives: a minimum of two open water dives will be completed that focuses on rescue evolutions and scenarios.


Course Fees: Please contact instructor for current course pricing. Fees include student training kit (textbook, DVD, student workbook, dive tables, audio tapes, and miscellaneous accessories) and certification costs. Students are expected to have their own personal dive gear, but if gear is needed it can be rented for a minimal additional fee.


* Upon successful completion of this course, students will be awarded certification from either NAUI or SDI.