## How to Read a Compass While Scuba Diving
A compass is an essential navigation tool for scuba divers. It allows you to determine your direction of travel, even in low visibility conditions. However, reading a compass underwater can be different than reading one on land. Here are some tips on how to read a compass while scuba diving:
### 1. Understand the Basic Parts of a Compass
A compass consists of a rotating dial with a magnetic needle. The needle always points to magnetic north, which is not the same as true north. The difference between magnetic north and true north is called the declination. The declination varies depending on your location. You can find the declination for your area by using a declination calculator or by checking a nautical chart.
### 2. Calibrate Your Compass
Before you use your compass, you need to calibrate it. This will ensure that the needle is pointing to magnetic north. To calibrate your compass, follow these steps:
1. Hold the compass in your hand, keeping it level.
2. Turn the bezel so that the “N” mark on the bezel lines up with the north end of the needle.
3. Hold the compass still and allow the needle to settle.
### 3. Determine Your Direction of Travel
Once your compass is calibrated, you can use it to determine your direction of travel. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Hold the compass in front of you, keeping it level.
2. Turn your body until the north end of the needle lines up with the “N” mark on the bezel.
3. Your direction of travel is the direction that you are facing.
### 4. Use Landmarks to Navigate
In addition to using your compass, you can also use landmarks to navigate. Landmarks can be anything from a rock formation to a coral head. When you are navigating, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to identify landmarks that you can use to help you find your way back to your starting point.
### 5. Practice Using Your Compass
The best way to learn how to read a compass is to practice. Go for a dive in a familiar area and practice using your compass to navigate. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with using this essential navigation tool.
### Tips for Reading a Compass Underwater
Use a compass with a large dial. This will make it easier to read the compass in low visibility conditions.
Use a compass with a backlight. This will make it easier to read the compass in dark conditions.
Hold the compass level. If the compass is not level, the needle will not be able to point to magnetic north.
Keep the compass away from metal objects. Metal objects can interfere with the compass’s magnetic field.
Practice using your compass. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with using this essential navigation tool.
### Conclusion
A compass is an essential navigation tool for scuba divers. By understanding the basic parts of a compass, calibrating it, and practicing using it, you can use a compass to help you navigate safely underwater.