It is extremely important to take your time and set up dive gear correctly. If it is not set up the right way, the dive gear can malfunction while you are underwater. This could lead to injury or even death. Take a few extra minutes to set up your dive gear properly. It is well worth the effort.
Step 1
Stand your scuba tank upright on something level and solid. Make sure the scuba tank will not fall over while you are setting up your dive gear. It hurts when one of the tanks falls on your foot. It is always better to set up dive gear on dry land, rather than on a moving boat.
Step 2
Slide the buoyancy compensator (BC) around the scuba tank. All BCs have a round band that slides around a standard-sized scuba tank. Make sure the fit is snug. Lock the latch down around the scuba tank to make sure that the strap does not move. Make sure that the valve at the top of the tank is pointed toward the diver.
Step 3
Place the regulator over the valve on the scuba tank. The tightening handle should face away from the diver. Make sure there is no sand or other contaminants between the regulator and the scuba tank. It is a good idea to wash it out with water before attaching the regulator. If necessary, use some air from the tank to blow debris away. Tighten the handle until it is snug. Do not over tighten.
Step 4
Attach the inflator hose to the hole in the front of the BC vest. This will screw on with a few turns. Attaching this tube allows you to fill the BC with air so you will float. Secure the Velcro strap around the inflator hose to keep it in place.
Step 5
Slowly turn the air valve on the scuba tank until it is open all the way. This allows the air to flow. Check the pressure gauge to make sure that there is enough air in the scuba tank to dive. Always dive with tanks that are nearly full of air. Absolutely never dive with a tank that reads in the red area of the gauge.
Step 6
Check your dive gear for leaks. Fill the BC up to see if any air leaks around the inflator hose. Also make sure the regulator is not purging air. Your dive gear is now ready to use.
Things You'll Need
- Scuba tank
- Buoyancy Control Device
- Regulator
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