Safety tips

Using your snorkel properly will give you clear visions of what’s going on under the water.

Be sure you know your personal limitations.  Be knowledgeable of the environment you are in by paying attention to local weather conditions and forecasts.  Also check for any hazards, such as deep and shallow areas, currents, and where the entry and exit points are located.  The more informed you are, the more aware you will be of hazards and the more enjoyable your snorkeling experience will be.

Before going in check your equipment carefully and know how it functions.  Look at all the straps to be sure they are not cracked or twisted.  Check any strap clamps to be sure they are working.

Practice putting your mask on and off while you tread water.

Remember to never snorkel alone.  No matter how wonderful the ocean conditions may seem, always snorkel with a buddy.

Don’t ever turn your back to the ocean no matter how calm it looks since you’re liable to get caught by a wave.  Take some time to study the wave action and area you are going to snorkel in before entering the water.

Whenever possible check out the beach conditions by asking a life guard or anyone who has been out snorkeling as to the water visibility, current, waves, marine life, etc.  You will be surprised how often someone who just came out of the water will tell you about a beautiful school of fish, a feeding turtle, or spectacular hidden coral head.

Remember that as a relaxed snorkeler you will get more pleasure out of snorkeling and a greater appreciation of your environment. You will also be less threatening to the marine life since relaxed fish will allow you to swim closer and they will maintain their normal routine, allowing you to experience their world.

Protect your skin by limiting the amount of direct sunlight you receive between 10 am and 4 pm.  Be sure to wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor containing a high rating (at least 15), you want to enjoy your experience not suffer from it.

Marine life

Most marine life likes to congregate around coral, rock formations or structures.  Whether it is coral, lava rock, or man-made objects, marine life will find food and safety near such structures.  Most fish won’t venture far from the safety of these areas. If you see large areas of sand think: desert for marine life.  If you want to see the most marine life possible, snorkel around areas that have some kind of structures.  Be sure to look in crevices and under ledges fro marine life.

Being respectful of the ocean

Remember to look but don’t touch when you come across coral reefs.  Do not rub up against it, some coral can actually cause irritations, don’t step on it or drop anchor on it.  Coral is a living animal and it only takes nine instances of abuse to kill it.  Also remember, it is against the law to break damage or remove any stony coral from the ocean.

Don’t harass the marine life.  You may find that they have their own way of protecting themselves that could be hazardous to you.  Respect their house as you would respect your own house.

Professional training courses for snorkeling

Feel like you would like a professional to teach you the techniques of snorkeling.  There are a couple of choices for you.  You can check your local yellow pages under Diver’s Equipment and Supplies or click on one of these links that well take you to either NAUI, National Association of Underwater Instructors, skin diving (snorkeling classes) http://nauiww.org/recreational_divers.php  or SSI, Scuba Schools International http://www.ssiusa.com/snorkel.htm.

Whether you choose to teach yourself, learn from a friend or take a course be sure to stay safe and enjoy the wonderful world of the ocean.