Divers may experience unintentional encounters with fire coral, jellyfish and other marine creatures. Any time a person enters the marine environment there is a chance of being stung, bitten or cut. This course will teach you where you can expect to encounter potentially hazardous marine life and how to provide first aid when injuries occur. The more you know about the marine environment, the greater your chances of having safe, memorable dives.

Stroke is the third-leading cause of death and the leading cause of long-term disability according to the American Heart Association. Decompression illness (DCI) can present as a neurological injury associated with scuba diving. Rapid recognition of and response to a suspected neurological injury, regardless of cause, can help convince
the injured person of the need for emergency oxygen and help the responder monitor the injured person's condition and report findings to emergency medical services (EMS).

When a diving accident occurs, being able to recognize the problem and respond with the appropriate care can speed the diver's recovery and minimize lasting effects. Oxygen first aid provides needed oxygen to body tissues, enhances the elimination of inert gases such as nitrogen obtained from breathing gases, and helps shrink any gas bubbles that may have developed during ascent — bubbles that contribute to decompression sickness and arterial gas embolism. Supplemental oxygen also can help minimize or eliminate existing symptoms and reduce further injury until medical services are engaged.