Scuba, or Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus, is a form of diving that uses a set of specialized equipment to allow people to explore underwater environments. While scuba can be dangerous, it can also be an exhilarating experience. For many people, it is the only way to see fascinating marine creatures in their natural habitat — and to leave text messages, work obligations and the stress of daily life behind.

Getting started in scuba requires proper training and certification. During this time, students learn about the science of scuba diving and receive in-water instruction from an experienced instructor. They also complete classroom lessons and study a variety of topics that are important to safety, including dive theory, aquatic ecology and the operation of their scuba gear.

Once a person has completed their scuba certification, they can purchase or rent the equipment necessary to explore underwater worlds. This includes the dive mask, snorkel and fins to help them maneuver in the water, the air tank, regulator, buoyancy control device (BCD) and a wetsuit or dry suit to keep divers warm. Some scuba divers prefer to bring their own gear, while others opt for the convenience of renting everything at a local dive shop.

Deep sea scuba diving can be an incredible experience, but it is important for divers to remain vigilant and follow established guidelines regarding depth restrictions. This is essential to avoid common hazards, such as nitrogen narcosis or barotrauma, which can occur if a diver exceeds recommended limits or ascends too quickly.