Do you know your Flags?

 

Dive flags are essential safety equipment for scuba divers. They indicate the presence of divers in the water, making it easier for boats and other watercraft to avoid collisions. There are several types of dive flags, each with its own purpose and use. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of dive flags and their importance.

1. Alpha Flag: The Alpha Flag is a rectangular flag with a white field and a blue diagonal stripe. It is used to indicate that a vessel is engaged in diving operations and is not to be approached closer than 100 feet. The Alpha Flag is required by law in many areas and is a universal symbol for scuba diving.
2. Diver-Down Flag: The Diver-Down Flag is a red flag with a white diagonal stripe. It is used to indicate the presence of a diver in the water. The Diver-Down Flag is required by law in many areas and is an important safety measure for divers. The flag can be displayed on a boat or a buoy and must be visible from all directions.
3. Surface Marker Buoy (SMB): A Surface Marker Buoy is a brightly colored inflatable marker that is used to indicate a diver's location during a safety stop or when surfacing. SMBs are available in a range of colors, including orange, yellow, and pink. They are typically attached to a reel and deployed when the diver reaches the safety stop depth.
4. Flag Float: A Flag Float is a buoy with a dive flag attached to it. The buoy is usually brightly colored and can be seen from a distance. The Flag Float is used to indicate the presence of divers in the water and is often deployed during drift dives.
5. International Code Flag "A": The International Code Flag "A" is a blue and white flag that is used to indicate that a vessel is in restricted maneuvering status. It is often used in combination with the Alpha Flag to indicate that a vessel is engaged in diving operations and requires additional caution from other vessels in the area.

In conclusion, dive flags are an essential safety measure for scuba divers. The different types of dive flags serve different purposes, but all are designed to make it easier for boats and other watercraft to avoid collisions with divers. As a responsible diver, it is important to understand the different types of dive flags and their uses, and to ensure that they are displayed properly during diving operations. By using the appropriate dive flags, we can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable diving experience for all.