Scuba is an underwater diving activity that involves a diver using a self-contained breathing apparatus and a tank of compressed air. The equipment allows the diver to explore deeper areas of the ocean than would be possible with snorkelling. Scuba is popular for recreational reasons and is used in a variety of professional activities including offshore construction and military diving operations.

Diving is a great way to see fascinating sea creatures in their natural habitat, without having to travel far from shore. It is also an opportunity to get away from the stresses and pressures of life on land, leaving behind the text messages, bills and to-do lists. Regular scuba dives can even improve physical fitness and mental wellbeing, by removing stress, improving oxygen intake and focusing the mind on something completely different.

Divers can enjoy an entirely new world exploring ship wrecks and artificial reefs to observe marine life up close. Alternatively, they can visit underwater caves and canyons or plunge into walls to discover a teeming underworld of hidden wonders.

To dive safely, a diver must follow basic safety rules such as buddy diving and always checking their equipment before each dive. In the event of a problem, such as decompression sickness or nitrogen narcosis, a diver must seek medical attention immediately to prevent further complications. Other common hazards include nitrogen bubble formation and barotrauma. Nitrogen bubbles form when the gas in a diver’s body is compressed at too high a rate. This occurs when a diver ascends too quickly, or when they are unable to breathe due to ear or sinus problems. Nitrogen bubbles can block blood flow and cause tissue damage. The risk of this is reduced by following no-decompression limits and by ascending slowly on each dive.