☀️ When the sun is cheating: This is why divers should take their breathing seriously

ByNiels-Peter Brændeskov

Even the most beautiful days can be dangerous, and as divers we need to be extra vigilant. Sunshine can provide a sense of security, but the weather can change quickly – with consequences both above and below the surface. Wind, currents, temperature and visibility often change faster than we expect, and it is our responsibility to look after ourselves and each other.

When we stand on the beach and feel the warmth of the sun, it’s easy to underestimate the coldness of the water. But water conducts heat away from the body up to 25 times faster than air, meaning that even short dives in relatively mild water can affect the body more than we realize at the moment. Many divers have tried to come up from a dive and think, “I wasn’t really freezing.” But the body can still be affected.

🧊 What mild hypothermia does to the body

Mild hypothermia occurs when your body temperature begins to drop below normal levels. It doesn't have to be dramatic to be dangerous. Even a slight chill can affect both decision-making and motor skills – two things that are essential for safe diving.

Typical signs of mild hypothermia include:

  • Tremors — the body's attempt to create heat.
  • Reduced dexterity — it becomes more difficult to tighten belts, operate equipment, or handle an SMB.
  • Slower reaction time — you become less sharp in your decisions.
  • Fatigue and confusion — you feel excessively exhausted after the dive.
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If hypothermia is allowed to progress, it can lead to confusion, poor coordination, and in the worst case, unconsciousness. That's why it's important to react early: put on warm layers, drink something warm, and make sure to get shelter from the wind and weather.

🩺 Learn to deal with hypothermia – BLIVDYKKER.DK offers first aid courses

At BLIVDYKKER.DK We take safety seriously. That's why we offer 1. aid courses, where you will learn, among other things:

  • How to recognize early signs of hypothermia.
  • How to properly provide first aid to a hypothermic diver.
  • How to prevent hypothermia before, during and after a dive.
  • How to handle other diving-related emergencies.

The courses are practical, hands-on and aimed at divers of all levels. It's not just about being able to react in an emergency – but about creating confidence, energy and good habits every time you go diving.

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