What Product Have You Tried & Tested?
Greg Galford Jun 29, 2024
I don’t know about you, but I tend to keep scuba related magazines around and page through them occasionally. They are good for reference, and yes, you can get everything online, but sometimes I find things I didn’t know I was looking for. They tend to be mostly basic and common-sense refreshers. In last summer’s issue of DAN magazine was a perfect example, an article on cylinder safety.
When lifting a tank, we know to lift with our knees and keep a straight back. Best practice is to use a carry handle or attach it to a BCD, lift it from a comfortable seated position and carry it to your destination on your back. When you pick up your tank make sure the opening of the valve is facing away from the hand so that If your hand slips and the valve opens you won't be able to accidentally inject high pressure gas through your skin and cause a gas embolism.
Store your tanks in a cool dry place. If you are not going to use them for several weeks, leave a few hundred PSI in them. Just enough to keep out moisture but not cause load stress.
Buckle up – A full scuba tank stores an immense amount of energy. If it ruptures as a result of a car accident, it can cause serious injury. Use weight belts, gear bags, tie downs or specially designed foam or PVC racks to prevent them from moving around.
