Page 67 - AlertDiver_Summer2011_web

to get you there, help will likely require the same route to reach you. This is a sobering reality for those visiting exotic destinations, but it bears consideration. As a rule of thumb, the further you travel from home or medical services, the more precautions you should employ to stack the deck in your favor. This is why having redundant medical supplies, reliable communication equipment, multiple contact options and medical training is so important. Knowing that the best scenario might be a one- to two-day wait before you can be evacuated encourages good preparation. If you’re traveling with a company, consider asking focused questions to determine how prepared they are for such contingencies and what plans they have in place for evacuation.

This boils down to having an emergency action plan — a guide for what to do when bad things happen. A

substantial part of many people’s plans is to call DAN. This is an important step, but it’s only one part. DAN is here 24/7/365 to field calls, provide medical information, facilitate referrals and coordinate evacuations, but we can’t provide care over the phone or on the boat, island or lake. This is where your contingency planning and medical training (or that of your dive/travel operation) comes into play.

An integral part of a good trip is a safe return with wonderful memories. The more personal responsibility you take for your own safety and well-being, the more likely it is that you will enjoy trouble-free adventures. If trouble does occur, adequate preparation, planning and a thoughtful approach will boost your confidence and minimize the extent of complications and injuries. AD

www.alertdiver.com | 65

Dive computers are invaluable but do not replace the need to “plan your dive and dive your plan.”