Scuba tank
A person always must learn to use a scuba tank from a
certified scuba instructor. After all of the basics have been learned,
it is a good idea for a diver to keep the things learned fresh in his
mind. Some of the things a diver should remember include:
• Fill the tank – Most tanks are filled from a propane air
source. Because the air installed in the scuba tank is compressed, these
tanks can hold more air than one might think. A person who dives infrequently
should remember that the air in a tank can decrease in quality after
about six months. Therefore, the air should be replaced at least twice
a year.
• Turn it on – A diver begins the air flow through the tank
by turning the tank valve. This sends the air through the regulator.
Before entering the water, a diver should be sure to remove any water
with a blast of air before the mouthpiece goes into his mouth. A diver
should always exhale first as an extra precaution to ensure that he
does not inhale water.
• The first air in the tank that a person breathes in is mostly
carbon dioxide. In order to ensure that a diver gets a good, fresh breath
of air, take a deep breath. This will ensure that the diver can move
past the carbon dioxide and reach the oxygen. The oxygen will then flow
freely from the scuba tank after this first breath.