Public Safety Scuba Instructor

OBJECTIVE

The goal of the Public Safety Scuba Instructor (PSSI) program is to certify qualified candidates to train non-divers as Public Safety Divers (PSDs). The Public Safety Diver (PSD) certification is the equivalent to an open water certification. As a PSSI, the instructor will be prepared to present a comprehensive course of study to members of public safety agencies aspiring to become PSDs. PSSIs not only train new PSDs, but can upgrade their team’s level of training by cross-training certified open water divers to the PSD level. PSSIs utilize a comprehensive educational system of teaching material including a PSD student manual, audio visual material, a thorough PSSI manual, and a comprehensive pool and open water training system. The PSSI and PSD certification is recognized by and meets or exceeds all instructional requirements of the Recreational Scuba Training Council. The PSSI program is presented and managed through a cooperative effort between the instructor’s department and Dive Rescue International. By incorporating your own PSSIs into your department, you can contribute a substantial cost-effective and proven training program to your department.

PREREQUISITES

• Member of a Public Safety Agency
• At least 21 years old
• Current Dive Rescue 1 certification
• Completion of Med Dive [must be 2 day (20 hour) course]
• A minimum of 100 logged dives (at least 50% must be training/operational dives while remaining 50% can be recreational dives with only 2 pool dives/year acceptable)
• Current First Aid, EMT or Paramedic certification
• Current CPR certification

BRING TO CLASS

• US Coast Guard approved PFD with knife and whistle
• Adequate clothing and protection from the environment
• Pen and paper for note- taking and sketching.

Diving students must provide their own equipment: Wetsuit or dry suit, scuba regulator: recently serviced + environmentally
protected with alternate air source (i.e.: octopus), timing device, depth + submersible pressure gauge, BC with oral/power inflator,
4 tanks with current Hydro + VIP, mask, snorkel, fins, weight belt + 2 cutting tools (knife, wire cutters, or trauma shears).