Cool water can cause changes in spearfishermen as well as in fish. Anything beneath 65 slows the fish down a little, but a diver may suffer lapses in concentration and motor-function impairment.
Most Florida divers wear a full wet suit made of insulating neoprene 5-7 millimeters thick this time of year, in either a one-piece jumpsuit or a two-piece farmer john with a jacket. The jumpsuit is more flexible, but a two-piece suit is more versatile for changing temperatures. A neoprene hood, boots and gloves are necessary.
Cold water causes breathing rates to increase, which can mean a diver retains more CO2, which results in headaches. Cold water can cause more nitrogen to absorb into tissues, so divers should keep well away from decompression limits that would require long, chilly safety stops. Diving with nitrox can greatly increase safety margins.
Repetitive dives cause a cumulative heat loss. It is important to regain as much heat during surface intervals as possible. Remove your wet suit or at least the top and dry off. Cover up with a fleece coat that wicks moisture away from your skin, especially if layered over a wet suit bottom.
Some divers even bring warm water bottles to pour into their suits before and after dives.
- Chad Carney teaches scuba & spearfishing and runs charters out of St. Petersburg. Call 727 423-7775 or e-mail info@mobilescuba.com
