Underwater Communication

[NorthernDM]

Both above water and below, communication is essential to both new and old divers alike. Both my wife and I, as well as other dive professionals with the shop we are associated with in Michigan have been utilizing Sea Signs to communicate with ease underwater. Sea Signs has been formed from American Sign Language, and is an easy and affordable way to communicate underwater. Besides having the ability to communicate, it is also availabe as a distinctive specialty by most certifying agencies. I have found it to be an invaluable tool both in the water and out. Something I think divers should look into, or ask their shop to bring it to their location.

[scubadobadoo]

I would also like to see this offered more often. My wife and I use sign language underwater to communicate. Learn the alphabet and you are good to go.

[NorthernDM]

Glad to know others are using sign language as well. It is a shame we do not see more hearing impaired diving, as they have a great advantage below the water.

[jbisjim]

Agreed.. My Daughters class was taught sign language in class right along with everthing they did. She has taught me some and it is very helpful.

Even teaching divers the sign alphabet would be huge.

[RICoder]

Interesting post...would like to see some links to sites with more info on the subject.

[Jeff Toorish]

What a great idea. I took a course in ASL years ago, although I have not had much opportunity to utilize it, it would be perfect under water. The alphabet alone would make communication so much easier.

Jeff

[NorthernDM]

http://www.seasigns.com

For those interested, you should check out this site. For instructors, I know they have courses so you may bring it to your students and dive shops. We benefit from this greatly as everyone who observes us in the water, watching us talk back and forth all of the time.

[offroaddiver]

I actually am learning ASL in college. I have actually been able to run into some individuals who were divers who were deaf.
in addition to the alphabet learn to actually sign 1-10. also very handy when communicating air pressures.
Just one thing to remember. Learn the culture among deaf people so you don't insult people.

[Taxgeek]

My buddy and I took it, it was GREAT. Lots of words for abstract ideas that aren't covered in the regular padi course and hard to make up something for on the fly.

Then I broke up with my buddy.

Oh well.

[RICoder]

I tend to start lengthy converstations about signs with anyone who will sit still long enough to listen . Think I'll pick up the book and start taking it to classes I assist in.