Scuba Pre-Launch Checklist

Diver buddy check (BWRAF)

This is the check every certified diver learned in open water training, and the one complacency erodes the fastest. It happens diver-to-diver, right before entry, every single dive -- no exceptions for "we just did this an hour ago."

• BCD -- inflator button, both dump valves, and the overpressure release valve; dry suit divers also check the inflator hose connection and deflate valve
• Weights -- confirm your buddy's weight system and that you both know how to release it in an emergency
• Releases -- tank straps and all BCD releases; make sure hoses aren't obstructing anything you'd need to remove in a hurry
• Air -- open the cylinder valve fully and breathe from both the primary and alternate regulator while watching the SPG
• Final check -- mask, fins, snorkel, dive computer, signaling devices, light, hoses secured

Team and boat pre-launch check

This is the layer that happens before the buddy checks -- while the boat is still at the dock or the team is still in the parking lot. Only once every item here is confirmed does the team move to individual buddy checks and entry.

• Weather -- current forecast checked against go/no-go criteria, surface conditions acceptable, any advisories reviewed
• Vessel readiness (boat dives) -- fuel, engine, and safety equipment checked; communication equipment functional; emergency gear aboard
• Team accountability -- full roster confirmed present, roles assigned, buddy pairs confirmed
• Float plan -- route, max depth, and dive time recorded; expected return time set; someone not diving aware of the plan
• Final go/no-go -- Emergency Action Plan current and accessible, all divers briefed, individual buddy checks completed

Adapting this to your dive type

The core pre-launch structure stays the same across dive types, but a few add specifics worth cross-referencing. Drift dives need current speed/direction and pickup procedure confirmed at this stage. Deep or technical dives need gas planning and turn-pressure confirmed before launch, not worked out on descent. Every dive type still needs the underlying dive plan -- objective, site details, route, and limits -- filled in before the pre-launch check even starts; the pre-launch check confirms the plan is ready to execute, it doesn't replace having one.