| Destruction of coral reefs is sometimes
caused by uninformed sea divers. Here are some ways in
which you, as a diver, can help prevent loss of coral
and at the same time preserve the beauty of the underwater
world.
1) Use the lightest weight belt to prevent it from
sinking into and damaging the coral. Make sure you are
properly weighted and learn how to achieve neutral buoyancy
control depth by balancing your body weight with the
lead belt and use breathing techniques.
2) Swim in a horizontal position, keeping a constant
distance away from the coral, eyes looking ahead. Do
not roll or somersault because your oxygen tank may
accidentally bump into the coral and kill it.
3) Limit the use of fins when swimming just above the
coral to avoid creating a cloud of sand in the water,
which can smother the polyps that form the coral.
4) If you are not an expert diver, it is advisable
for you not to nose dive or steeply dive into the water,
but rather to carefully use the anchor to guide you
down.
5) Do not collect any coralline, coral, seashells or
starfish from the sea. Leave them for others to admire
in their natural beauty.
6) Do not step on any coral reef, even if it is large
and looks strong enough to support you. The tiny polyps
inside it may die from the slightest touch.
7) Do not touch living coral reefs. A touch, however
light, may cause the coral to become a dead substance.
8) Keep ropes or tubes from hanging loose. Divers who
leave their oxygen regulators or emergency oxygen tubes
hanging often get them stuck to coral.
9) Fasten your weight belt firmly in order to keep
it from falling onto the coral and creating great damage.
10) Never touch any marine organisms; whether they
are fish or plants. Observe them at a comfortable distance,
especially large sea life such as stingrays, and whale-sharks
because you will startle them and they may stay away
from divers forever. Do not chase or race against each
other underwater.
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