How to Clear Your Mask When Scuba Diving
One of the most important skills a scuba diver can master is how to clear their mask. A flooded mask can be disorienting and even dangerous, so it’s essential to be able to clear it quickly and efficiently.
There are two main ways to clear a mask:
1. The blow-out method: This is the most common method and is the one that most divers learn first. To perform a blow-out, simply exhale gently through your nose while keeping your mouth closed. The air will travel up into your mask and push the water out.
2. The tilt method: This method is less common, but it can be helpful if the blow-out method doesn’t work. To perform a tilt, simply tilt your head back so that the water pools at the bottom of your mask. Then, use your free hand to gently push the water out.
Here are some tips for clearing your mask:
Practice regularly: The best way to improve your mask-clearing skills is to practice regularly. Try clearing your mask in different positions, such as upside down or in a strong current.
Stay calm: It’s important to stay calm when your mask gets flooded. Panicking will only make it more difficult to clear.
Don’t hold your breath: Holding your breath can cause your lungs to expand and put pressure on your mask, making it more difficult to clear.
Use your free hand: If you’re having trouble clearing your mask with the blow-out method, try using your free hand to help push the water out.
Don’t give up: If you can’t clear your mask on the first try, don’t give up. Keep trying until you’re successful.
Clearing your mask is an essential scuba diving skill. By practicing regularly and following these tips, you can be sure that you’ll be able to clear your mask quickly and efficiently, even in the most challenging conditions.
Additional Tips
In addition to the tips above, here are a few more things you can do to make mask clearing easier:
Use a mask with a purge valve: A purge valve is a small valve located on the bottom of the mask. When you press the purge valve, it releases a burst of air that helps to clear the mask.
Use an anti-fog solution: Anti-fog solution helps to prevent your mask from fogging up. This can make it easier to see and clear your mask.
Wear a mask strap: A mask strap helps to keep your mask in place and prevents it from slipping off. This can be helpful when you’re clearing your mask.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you’ll be able to clear your mask quickly and efficiently, even in the most challenging conditions.