Never undervalue the importance of safety in the water. As a diver, it’s one of your most important lessons so ensure you know your limitations and follow safety guidelines correctly at all times.

Scuba diving, spearfishing or freediving isn’t for the faint hearted and can lead to serious injury and/or death if safety is not taken at all times. Dive accidents may include shallow-water blackout, drowning, ear and sinus injuries, improper operation of boats, defective gear, shark attacks and other.

Dogtooth Diving recommend that you always dive with a buddy and display the swallow-tailed blue and white dive flag as an indication that you’re diving in the vicinity. This should be attached to your float and/or boat.

For all you freedivers, Dogtooth Diving recommends that you complete a breath hold course. Ocean Hunter provide a breath hold course in New Zealand; see their website for more details. Plus check out the Divewise website for valuable freediving information.

Please remember that when scuba diving, spearfishing or freediving to always use your own judgment, diving abilities and know your limitations.