The predive safety check—aka “BWRAF” (BCD, Weights, Releases, Air, and Final OK)—is like your pre-dive ritual for peace of mind underwater. As a diving instructor, teaching the buddy check in a fun, memorable way is pretty cool, because it means your students will go into every dive feeling confident and safe.
Teaching this skill
To start, break down the BWRAF basics in a way that sticks! Does the BCD inflate and deflate correctly? Weights are in place and can be released quickly. All BCD clips and straps, including the tank band, are secure. Check air by breathing from the regulator and making sure the pressure gauge needle doesn’t move. The Final OK allows for a quick, last look to ensure everything is in place.
Don’t forget it is called a ‘buddy check’ so buddies check each other.
On the first couple of dives you may want to remind your students to do a buddy check. Later, you may step back to see if they remember to do it themselves. As their diving instructor you’re not just teaching them safe diving procedures but also the right attitude towards safe diving.
The reward
The rewarding feeling you get from teaching your students the predive safety check may not be as immediate as for other skills like ‘mask clearing’ or ‘hovering’. Still, seeing your students develop a routine for the buddy check is satisfying because they will be prepared and safe for every dive.
Teaching them the right attitude towards safe diving practices sets them up for safer and more enjoyable dives throughout their lives, and you just have to tap yourself on the shoulder for being the great diving instructor who taught them that!
Become a PADI diving instructor
Being a PADI diving instructor is truly the best job out there! You get to live and work in stunning tropical destinations, stay active every day, and experience the incredible reward of helping students learn new skills and boost their confidence.
Imagine spending your days teaching others to dive, sharing your love for the underwater world, and seeing their excitement as they master each skill.
Dreaming of becoming a PADI diving instructor? Get in touch, and we’ll show you how!
