If you were a pilot getting ready to fly a plane, no matter what size or type, there are certain things you must do before you leave the ground for the 'wide blue yonder'. That one thing is a basic inspection of the plane. They call this a pre-flight inspection. They check the gauges, make sure they have fuel in the wings, make sure all controls are "free and clear." They do this because, if they found something wrong, the pilot or crew could take care of it on the ground better than in the air. Make sense.
As in diving, we have a similar inspection, we call it the BWRAF (Begin With Review And Friend.) I will cover what each letter means and some important points to each. It is important to always dive with a buddy. Your buddy will do this brief inspection on you and then you will return the favor. Your buddy can also help you get your gear on and off. So DIVE WITH A BUDDY.
B - BCD (BUOYANCY COMPENSATION DEVICE)
Make sure that it is the correct size, and that there are no obvious problems with it. Do an over-all look at it. Is it torn in places that cause a problem, does it "just look" safe ? Check the inflators, do they work, both orally and manually.
W - WEIGHTS and WEIGHT SYSTEMS
Did they remember to put them in. You do not want to be in the water and forget your weights. I have seen divers that did it. Is the amount weight they have fit the suit and water they are going to dive. Are you diving with a wet suit or dry suit; fresh water or salt water; it does makes a difference.
R - RELEASES
Do you know where every one is located ? Start at the top and work your way down. They may have a chest strap, belly strap, and cumber bun. Don't forget to look at the weight system they have. Integrated or external ? If they are using a weight belt, do they have a right hand release ? Check them all.
A - AIR SUPPLY
Check the valve to make sure the air is on. There is nothing worse than getting in the water and forgetting to turn your air on. Check your air gauge and make sure you have enough air for the dive you plan to make. Are you making a long, deep dive - get a fresh tank. Short shallow dive may be able to use less than a full tank. But know before you get in the water. Lastly, taste the air to ensure that is it not stale. Put the regulator in your mouth and take a few breathes and taste it.
F - FRIEND - FINAL OK
Do a final look over your buddy's system to ensure that you did not forget anything. That you have all your equipment in place, that nothing is dangling.If all is OK, then give your dive buddy a 'thumbs' up.
After you do this, have your buddy return the favor. This only takes about 5 minutes, but it is time well spent.
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