All to soon the summer dive season is over. For some it is just a fond memory. For others it is still a dream. Regardless, it is time to put the dive gear into winter storage. STOP, before you dump everything into that basement corner, take a minute and put the gear away properly.
Take your wetsuit hang it up. Do not fold it. You can even go as far as stuffing it with newspapers to help keep its shape. Keep it away from electric motors and direct sun light. Do the same with your hood, boots and gloves.
Your BC should be blown up and hung up. This will keep the bladder from sticking together, if your BC has one. If not it will still keep it from sticking. Also if you have any leaks you will notice it. Check all the straps, buckles and velcro for cuts, cracks etc.
When hanging up your dive gear use wide plastic hangers. Not the thin wire hangers.
Check your mask, fins and snorkel for bad straps. Make sure your regulator dust cap is on. Lay your regulator down flat. Make sure the hoses are relaxed. No kinks or sharp bends.
You may want to take the batteries out of any dive lights, computers that you are not going to use in a while.
Your tanks should be store up right with only 50 to 500 psi in them. Secure them so that they don’t fall over.
Look your weight belt or pouches over. Make sure they are not frayed or torn. Check the buckle or clips and fasteners.
Fill out your dive log.
Now mark your calendar. Some time around March or April. Or some kind of reminder to get your tanks hydro’d and or visual inspected and filled. Get your regulator serviced and ready to go.
Check the club’s newsletter and website calendar to see when we will have the rental of a pool. Then make sure you go to the pool and give yourself some time in the pool to get used to things again. Lastly look forward to next years diving with the Adirondack Aquanautical Society.
