Search & Recovery

In this program, you will learn all the skills you need to safely conduct search and recovery dives. You will learn how to use search patterns, specialized dive plans, underwater communications and how to recover small to medium sized objects using specialized equipment such as lift bags, lines and reels. Upon completion, you will earn the SSI Search & Recovery specialty certification. 

Prerequisites for Search and Recovery

• Certification prerequisites: Minimum Open Water Certification
• Minimum age is 15
• All persons under the age of 18 require parent/guardian signature for participation.
• Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied with a parent/guardian over the age of 18.
• Successfully complete the fitness to dive questionnaire. Some medical conditions may prevent you from diving. For Example: heart disease, asthma, or epilepsy. Cost of diving medical is not included. A medical is only required if you answer yes to any of the following questions on this form.
  
  
• CLICK HERE FOR MEDICAL QUESTIONNAIRE

Course Includes

• 2x Open Water Dive
  
• 1x Confined/pool Session
  
• Online Theory
  
• In person academic session
  
• Completion over one or two days (duration approx. 10-15hrs)
  
• Max depth 30m/100ft

Exclusions

• Mask, Snorkel, Fins and Boots
  
• Diving equipment e.g., Tank, Regulator, Gauge, BCD, Weights and Wetsuit. 
• Transport to the pool and dive site

• Sunscreen
• Mask, Snorkel, Fins, and Boots
• Diving Equipment e.g., Tank, Regulator, Gauge, BCD, Weights, Torch, Slate, Reel, Knife, SMB
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Lunch
• Mobile Phone
• Completed paperwork with Parent/Guardian signature if required. (Contact our shop staff if you are unsure)
• Open Water certification card

For a single no-decompression dive, a minimum prefight surface interval of 12 hours is suggested. (Including pool and shallow water immersions)

For multiple dives per day or multiple days of diving, a minimum prefight surface interval of 18 hours is suggested. Dive Newcastle recommends 24 hours to err on the side of safety. 

For dives requiring decompression stops, 24 hours minimum is recommended. 

To err on the side of safety, many divers plan a 24-hour surface interval or longer and spend their time exploring topside attractions.

All divers and students need to follow the recommendation given by the manufacturer of the dive computer regarding No-Fly Times and should always take the most conservative approach regarding flying after diving. Waiting longer before flying when possible after diving and exploring the top side during this period is always your best approach. This information is discussed further and in more detail during your dive course.