1) Did Dave assert that their DMs can save a heart attack victim?
2) I did not read this as Aldora being the ONLY dive op that does (insert your service). He merely pointed out what Aldora does reference the on-going discussion of DM responsibilities. Perhaps others do some things similar....some things better...some things differently.
1) Sorry Ron for not making it clear enough for you. He said no one has died within sight, now read what I said. IF someone did have a major, then this statement would be tough to clear. While it is good that they try to stay in a close unit, it usually cant be controlled to the extent of saying there would not be ever a problem in saving someones life ALL the time while diving with Aldora.
2) Then this type of comment is advertizing and should be placed in the business section. I read it differently.
People have become accustomed to Cozumel diving as a baby sitting resort course dive destination. To much responsibility is being placed on the dms as the result of divers diving once a year and NOT keeping up their skills during the year gap. They just stay inept at diving and then need this type of safe guard in place so they wont die, IMHO this is not good for the dive industry at large. They go to other dive destinations and aren't baby sat, then they have major issues with the sport. A lot have narrow escapes, most do not know how to even set up their gear. I told my wife as she was learning this year to NEVER let anyone put her kit together. Divers on her boat thought she had dove for years, she had 15 dives. THAT is responsible diving. I also taught her how to use a smb. I also taught her not to worry if she gets separated, just blow the bag, have a three minute safety stop, the boat will pick you up. Don't panic. Fortunately for her in the 'crazy' currents she dealt with them like a trooper and did not get separated. But she did tell me she thought about the process for getting lost a lot during her dives. It seemed to calm her down knowing what to do. This is responsible personal diving. To simply say we will wipe your a$$ during the dive for you while on Coz. I dont like that.
DAVE did say they do help their divers weight correctly and try to give assistance to better the divers skills. Noble. However what about guys like me that are skilled, what do you have to offer me? I dont mind diving with newer divers at all. I cant escape it. For experienced divers they know the drift and can handle the dive without the need of a dm. However law states they must be there. Cool with me but dont make me dive in a pack. I take pictures and the group does not wait. I dont want a dm freaking because I stay behind shooting.
I just dove with a young family, mom, dad, two boys and a girl. They had dives but where not capable of being on their own at all. They did very well in the crazy currents. They listened well to the advise about the currents and how to use them. The kids where a blast. I took lots of pics for them. The dm said to me, Kevin if you want to hang and take shots no problem, I wont worry about you, that was very cool to me. I would loose them for maybe five minutes, catch up, play a little then shoot on my own. And do it all over again. The dm was greatly needed in this situation. It was like herding cats. Funny to watch, but dangerous all the same. He earned his tip. Like what was just stated also every dive needs to be tailored. Albeit to have some sort of guide to go by is good for most.
By the way Ron no comment on the air share issue?
