Still Renting Gear? Do's and Don'ts - Scuba Tech Tips: S06E19

Still in Durban, South Africa, Alec show new diver Desiree the Do's and Don'ts of renting scuba gear to fully enjoy todays diving on the Aliwal Shoals.
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[@397coney7]

“Nice, huh”😂. I know this is an older video at this point, but I've been binge-watching your videos. Golden content, I say. You must've been a teacher at some point, because you explain the things very well. I dove regularly 1984-1994 and then I got a real job😂and life got in the way. Anyway, I have a renewed interest in scuba and have been researching gear. For days, I was looking online for dive tables to purchase🤦. I'm amazed they are not used anymore, or not as much. My head is spinning researching diving computers.Appreciate the content!!

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

I taught high school science for several years. Tables are moving into vintage diving gear territory as computers are reliable, safe and affordable. Lots more to watch and learn from. A

[@jellyfishattack]

As a brand new diver, and a woman, I didn't see anything inappropriate in this video. Getting a good fit is very important, and for a while, you really need someone else with experience to make sure everything's fitting properly, and is where it should be; when you learn to gear up, when you rent gear (at first), and when you buy gear (I want to but gear that fits me as best as it can); and you can't do that without being touched. This touching wasn't anywhere close to a 'sexualized' area either. My 1st experience diving was with a terrible, unsafe, lazy, and cranky, instructor. He was fired after our 1st day in the water for being all of the above and then some. This year, I did the course from start to finish. The thing I wanted to say was that when I was sitting on the dock, he helped me into the BCD/tank and fastened everything. When he secured the cummerbund, he said, ''this is when I get sued''. When I hopped into the water, I'd thought (as I didn't know any better then) that he'd done everything up properly, but the cummerbund was not tight and as I swam, my entire kit swayed around on my back, like a flag in the wind. I'd much rather get properly fitted than not enjoy the dive. If people think this is pervy, would they have thought so if a woman had been doing the fitting? Also, God help them if they ever have to be strapped into an open cockpit plane or one with a stunt/fighter-style canopy, or even a parachute.....

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Well thank you Jfish. It's too bad that people are becoming so sensitive to any perceived insult or overstep in the world. Apparently nothing is innocent anymore. I'm a very warm person by nature. I used to shake hands when introduced to someone and would often lightly grasp the person's arm with my left hand as I did so if I was really pleased to meet them - until someone said I shouldn't touch people like that! I wonder what's been happening in France, Spain and Italy where a hug and kiss on both cheeks is a normal greeting, even with strangers? Not one has ever complained that I overstepped decency. It's always been someone else watching that has a problem. It's possible to explain how to adjust a BCD or how to fit a wetsuit or how to tuck in a cold water hood all without touching the person but, it's not only time-consuming because you have to explain it several times as the person struggles to understand and do it, you can never be sure it's done properly. As you've discovered, too loose or too tight can make the difference between a safe, comfortable dive and the other one. However, the world is what it is and I appreciate that times have changed and people with them. I wish we could just relax with each other and enjoy our times together without all the overtones and incriminations. Thanks again very much for your comments. Alec

[@xineisBR]

@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter , here in Brazil, it is usual to kiss on the cheek and/or hug. I guess it is a cultural thing...

[@Str8Flossin]

Thank you Alec! Always a pleasure watching your videos. The young lady didn’t appear to be uncomfortable, she seemed to really be enjoying herself. I recently bought a 7mm semi dry suit and the shop employee touched me in the same manner Alec did here to ensure proper fit. Definitely didn’t feel violated. It’s part of the deal! You people need to stop.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thanks Judson. If you've ever had a custom made suit of clothing or maybe a wedding dress (I haven't!), you know it's 100% professional. Alec

[@ernestlcolemanjr]

You remind me of the Mr. Rogers of scuba diving.

[@PROSTO4Tabal]

Alec Peirce Scuba = warehouse of knowledge

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thanks sir.

[@footfile]

Thanks Alec, years of diving and never thought to do that trick of turning my wetsuit legs inside out. Never too old to learn (-:

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Isn't that the truth? I say often to new divers, old divers and even (especially) instructors "The longer I dive the more I realize what I DON'T know!". Thanks. Alec

[@Sokeresa]

I love it man, the way he said it, now that we got the set suit, you might want a bc and some air, what do you think. Lol priceless

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thanks for watching. Alec

[@craigcampbell3063]

Love your videos, Alec! Keep them coming. Greetings from Cape Town 🇿🇦

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Hello, will do. Had lots of fun diving in SA and safari's. A

[@craigcampbell3063]

@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter And hunting, I see! 🙂 Can't get enough of my scuba and hunting. I like to think that people like you and I are either crazy or super cool! Or a bit of both 😉 Take care for now.

[@blisteringherb]

I’ve spent a good amount of time in SA, but I haven’t had the chance to dive there. I’d love to go back again and dive with the sharks.

[@jonassgundersen7997]

thanks for the tips! im really excited for when i get my own gear and start my adventure in to the blue world!

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

If you really want to be a serious diver and enjoy all that the sport offers, you ought to get your own gear. Have fun. Alec

[@patjoew]

Alex thanks for the video’s. I just started following you esecially because im going to buy gear. There really great and give great advice to take with me when doing so. Ps also showed this to a girlfriend of mine and both of us didnt even crossed our minds you tough her inapproiate. Its just a thing now soon there will be no more interaction between human beings at all. Everyone sees something wrong in everything it seems. Ohwell atleast we have diving :)

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Yes, I'm afraid you may be right. Unless we can find a solution to the deterioration of "society", we will all be living in one of the dystopian future worlds that we see in the movies where no one talks to or meets or (heaven forbid) touches another human. Everyone will live in his own cubicle with his high speed internet for his entire life. It used to be a science fiction horror movie but if you look around with wide open eyes, you can see it happening. Scary I know but the last thing I do at night and the first thing I do each morning is give my wife a kiss - on the lips too!!! Glad to be of help. Contact me anytime with questions. Thanks for watching and your support. Alec

[@VoodooDewey69]

It sounds like a great hobby .And this gentelman is a storehouse of knowledge.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Give it a try, you will be addicted like me for 60+ years.

[@VoodooDewey69]

@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Well I can tell by the way you so passionately talk about your sport it's definitely is interesting. But also I realize now that you definitely have to go and be certified this is nothing I would try without having complete knowledge of what I was doing thanks again for all you do.You missed your calling as a talk show host you cracked me up when you told me about your sitting at the bar with your computer watch on the chick comes up to you and says are you an astronaut. That's some funny stuff. I can see myself right now sitting in a bar with a dive watch on never haven't dived in my life but I'll tell her I'm a deep-sea diver and i have a ship for discovering lost treasure laden pirate ships . I'm in.

[@dstackradio]

Thank you, Alec! I love your channel. I’m finishing up my PADI cert in April, and I’ve learned so much from you. This video is really helpful, as I’ll be renting some equipment until I know what setup I really like. Also, I love that your wife’s name is Diana (just like me)! Cheers. :)

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Sometimes I call her Princess. Sometimes I call her Queen. Sometimes I call her Your Highness. It all depends on her mood - which generally depends on my actions! Have fun and thanks for watching. Alec

[@user46346bdtgry]

Hey Alec. A good tip I learned from the lads in my club is to watch the pressure gauge while you check the reg’s. If the needle flickers or jumps around or sticks while you breathe it can help you spot issues!

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Good tip. You can detect several potential issues by doing that including whether or not your reserve is set properly (J Valve). With a modern air-integrated computer those issues do not show as easily. However a modern computer will show a lot more perhaps more important things such as how long your air will last under the dive conditions at the time. That calculation was a brain-bender when using an SPG. In fact, while the SPG will tell you how much air you have remaining in the tank, it was pretty much impossible to figure out how long that much air would last you. Thanks for watching. Alec

[@troop1026]

Great video my friend. Good points of review. Always solid on the subject material. Snowing again here in Montana. Cheers my friend. Dilly dilly. Lol.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Almost wish I was there Mike. Diana actually got stuck in deep snow in the snowmobile!! I had to blow a trail to her with the tractor. Great fun. Alec

[@searcaig]

I haven't rented gear in years unless I've forgotten something like dive boots, which I've done a couple of times. I hope you enjoyed your shark dives Alec, I was diving north of Durban near Umhlanga back in September 1997 (log books are great) on a couple of wrecks and was a tad cold in a rented 5mm (two-piece) at 22C. 60F / 15.5C is far too cold for me without a drysuit.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

I used to love ice diving, back when i had hair and less brain cells. Today anything under 85F is chilly. Ha ha.

[@trollivier5569]

Great video again. One thing I'm missing, I always teach my pupils to do a vacuum test of the equipment. Basically this means, try breathing on both the octopus and the 2nd stage before opening the tank. If you can suck in air through either one, this means there is something wrong and you will get water in your mouth whilst breathing under water.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

It's a good idea Tom and that's exactly how to do it. I told Kevin the video had to be longer!! Alec

[@trollivier5569]

Alec Peirce Scuba I was sure it was Kevin's fault ;-)

[@josebuencamino]

Dang it Kevin! Hahaha

[@davidshearer567]

Every time I think of a rental regulator, I hear that donkey braying type sound - hheee-yhrrrrr hheeee-mmmmbrrrr 🙄🙄🙄 😂😂😂

[@mor29il]

Great video as usual Alec, I personally use an integrated BCD where I find the weight belt annoying - So... 1. I always show my buddy the quick release mechanism (how and what) before the dive. (so its a tip in case you use one such as that) I have my own equipment since day 3 of the early stage of basic OW course, mainly because I prefer to know the condition and maintenance of my own equipment... as appose to rentals (as you said and mentioned) Which brings me to several things I found as useful (if you do rent) which some time people do not check but I found those useful for me as to real life findings (maybe minor but might help some): 2. BCD ...other things to check: A. check the release strings and valves for normal air release and no puncturing / released air while the tank is connected to the inflation hose. Sometimes those strings are warn out, and the values might lose their ability to be deflated.. B. I found with my buddy (actually did a check of the inflating/deflating use of the inflation hose that it worked well.... But...than we went diving and at about 6 meters she struggled the asccent and decent...thinking that she was actually not experienced or did not know what to do and panicked a bit...I calmed her down and we exercised some bouncy check underwater ..about 3 times... She understood everything but still came up and down without a correct bouncy ... The inflator hose did inflate and deflate correctly even under water... Took her out ... Took a quick look again ...found out there is a small hole in the rubber hose of the inflator BCD hose... Took a closer look and touched it....and found the rental club gave her a BCD with a half-cut inflator hose.... So she was not really to blame... Anyhow...check the BCD rubber hose ..go along the hose and check for any holes...found one...REPLACE it with the club before you dive.... 3. Tank : A. I found it in some rentals (as a tank I do not have and do rent it) That the O ring or opening is banged,dry or not closing correctly on my 1st stage after connecting it and without a "heese" sound.. So my tip is do a visual on the tank, check that the O ring is not cracked,dry ETC. Found a problem? tell the club to replace the O ring...still a problem ? replace the tank. Its a bummer to find this out while you dive and bubbles come out of your tank..although minor and you will probably loose not a great deal of bars...still worth checking (sometimes in a closed tank of water that clubs have) Or turn on the tank and check if no air is "loose" - get close to the tank (but not to close) with your ear and wait 10 seconds after opening the tank valve... . B. some times as to A. above everything is OK but you still get some extent of air escaping and making some air loose sound.. My tip is to simply spit on your finger and rub the spit on the tank's O ring. Only than connect your 1st stage to the tank..open the valve and check if no air is escaping (I replaced 3 tanks once in a rental and O rings b4 getting to this very simple tip....once done all was OK... I always do that since...and have no air "loose" or sounding problems from the tank's 1st stage since... 4. 1st stage, Upon a common maintenance I did.... I personally always check the screw, specifically that they are not loose from the hoses getting into the 1st stage, on one instance the hose connecting to the inflator was loose...checking this out turned out that the hose screw-in in the 1st stage...was broken and the hose rubber protector laying above it covered it up so you could not see it...so simply move the cover and check if the screws are not lose on the 1st stage vs. the hose connections...... I had luck and it did not break or rapture anything in the 1st stage but...I replaced the hose in it. If that was to happen underwater Id perhaps lose my option for bouncy from the 1st stage to the BCD...(although you can manually inflate it ..I know) Which brings me to the simple check: check if no hose connection (to the 1st stage) is loose...if it is ...check why and perhaps replace it - with the club before you connect it...and take it to dive with. 5. Perhaps minor ..fins with straps/bungi ETC. .. Although in this vid you use closed fines with no booties (I guess) , if you were do get more powerful fins from rentals: Check that the straps/chord and booties fit you correctly and in good condition... If they are not ..replace them..its your power when you dive..and not a pleasant one if loose or damaged. These points actually all happened to me or my buddy...so hopefully this can be useful for those who still rent from clubs (as I find these sort of things are can sometimes disturb your dive...or end it even) Great job Alec, I appreciate as usual your greatly professional vids. Cheers

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Sounds like you have it under control. I think the integrated BCD is great, if used sensibly. Take care. Alec

[@nicoscuba]

Happy New Year Alec

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thanks Lulu. Same to you. 2018 is bound to a good year. Alec

[@jonnieinbangkok]

You're having a little bit too much fun in this video 😆 😆 😆

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

People say that but she was shaking like a leaf and nervous. Just trying to keep her calm and not bolt out of shot. A

[@scottselkey4460]

Get it Alec!

[@derrickwilliams1902]

All hands on deck, LOL! You go Alec.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thanks Derrick. Glad you enjoyed it. Alec

[@scubaclient355]

In the first 10-year's of diving I was using rental gear. Although having your own fins/mask/computer is the best option. I believe you become a better diver when trying out different brands. A lot of novice divers go out and buy everything, only to realize later, scuba isn't for them. I'm not sure this is a tech tip, but wearing nothing under the wetsuit seems more comfortable. Were you ever a technical advisor on Sea Hunt? You and Lake Hickory Scuba are an asset for upcoming divers. You're not offended or intimidated by other diver's opinions. The hallmark of a good diver.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thanks SC. I'm so old my first wetsuit was hand cut and hand glued, by me! Check out my Vintage Scuba for that story. I was a little young to be on Sea Hunt but it sparked my life long love of Sea Hunt and diving. Having the worlds larges Sea Hunt memorabilia collection by the Guiness book of records says so. I want to share my life's experience in diving, store ownership and vintage gear while I can. Appreciate you comment and thanks for watching.

[@peterobrien8627]

New sub and notifications :) I start my padi course on Tuesday, my goal is to get to search and rescue, Ive looked at some of your other videos, I think I’m going learn a lot from you while I reach my goals!

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thanks Evo. You have a lot to look forward to. Have fun. Alec

[@peterobrien8627]

Alec Peirce Scuba I do, I can’t wait, when I get use to it, I’ll buy and bring my own equipment, thanks for the helpful information, keep it up,

[@tomthompson7400]

just get out there and do it ,, pay no heed to internet divers ,, me included

[@jesspeoples3292]

I own my mask, fins, snorkel, and dive boots. I also have my own dive computer. The only things I would rent are tanks and weights. I plan to buy my own wetsuit, bcd, regulator, and octopus. Thanks for the video and very informative.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Sounds like you're on your way to lots of adventure. Alec

[@jesspeoples3292]

@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter I am taking my first dive trip this year to the Georiga Aquarium. Looking forward to it.

[@imprezagtr]

12:16 Totally agree with Alec. No matter where you go, bring your own mask and computer! Having your own mask that fits is SO important! I would rather buy another mask at the dive shop than renting one.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Anyone who dives more that a few times will benefit from buying a mask they like that fits them for years.

[@Sokeresa]

Gramps still got the moves, hooking up with a young hottie. I guess it's ok after 40 yrs of hard work and now retired. You go Alec!!!

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

I was just on-line with my "young hottie" a short while ago. She and her husband are having a great time in South Africa. She recalls this video with fondness and she laughed out loud when I told her that some North Americans though I was molesting her. Thanks for watching. Alec

[@1badsteed]

@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter MOLESTING HER? Not hardly! She was a fantastic model for getting rental gear. Beautiful and funny too (shark fin!). This is a treasure. Could I add one thing? When checking your reg and octo, aren't you supposed to be watching your spg to see if the air dips any? Our instructor stressed that to us. You are the expert and I am a newb. Thanks for your channel. I am getting so many helpful tips from you!

[@labattomy]

Love your videos Alec! As a new diver I really appreciate you sharing your vast knowledge (for free!) with us..One think I was taught to do, and I saw you actually do it in this video, was when checking the regulator purge - sniff the air coming out of the tank. If it smells ‘bad’ (or smells at all) get a new tank. It could be contaminated. Especially if you might be renting from a questionable dive shop (who would even do that?) I guess it’s possible the compressor filter failed or they were running a 1958 Buick right next to the compressor intake?

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Careful. My first car was a 1956 Buick Special, canary yellow, flat head V8. A buddy and I bought it for $250 and drove it to college for over a year then sold it for $200. We figured we were winners. Today it's worth $50,000! I could never figure the logic of a V8 car that had 3 phony exhaust ports on the each side of the front quarter panel.When I started diving there were no regulations governing air purity. Today, other than the odd club compressor or privately owned compressor, all dive stores maintain their compressors and test the air regularly - twice a year by law here in Canada. The likelihood of getting bad air is very low but it never hurts to be aware. An odd smell or worse, a fuzzy taste in your mouth is a cause for concern. The larger problem is that the bad air will have contaminated the storage tanks at the store and the diver's tanks too. Everything has to be checked and cleaned. A dive store should be motivated by diver safety rather than cost but, the cost of cleaning up after finding bad air is much, much more than the cost of regular air tests! - not to mention the affect on the store's business. If you are diving in a remote area, checking the air quality is even more important. I recall my first trip to Cozumel in the 70's. Air quality was pretty good by then in Canada and the USA but not so much is the Caribbean. We had a simple, effective way to ensure the air was good. On our first day we took a bunch of beer and sat on the beach in front of the dive store we were using. If the divers who rented gear in the morning returned in the afternoon, it was a good sign that the air was OK. Take care. Alec

[@labattomy]

Perfect, thanks for the good info. Yes I remember my dad had a Buick convertible and reverse was broken. He said he always looked for a hill to park it in case he had to back up:-)

[@rimotivri]

deep things are welcome. Cool.

[@alaind831]

you forgot the hood and booties. Also checking second and listening for leaks on regulator (often the o-ring is worn out) and BCD. Biggest issue (diving somewhere tropical I had not done in a very long time) is figuring needed weight, taking extra (made the mistake to have too little first dive, better to have too much than not enough) and why didn't you have weight in BCD ? (easier to add/remove off the boat once you are in water testing your buoyancy.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Hey Alain. You know better than most that I can go on forever. But I'm under orders to keep the vids short - under 5 minutes if possible. Quite right on all those things. The hood fit is critical. It must NOT be too tight. Leaky valve O-Rings are so common that it's almost an accepted fact that rental tanks will have a stream of bubbles. It takes seconds and 10 cents to change them. Few rental BCDs are weight integrated yet. They're not that much more expensive should be since it makes it much easier to add/remove weights. It's called SAFETY. Thanks Alain. Alec

[@markstengel7680]

Hi Alec, wow pretty dive friend /model. Id be turned off using a reg someone used, unless sterilized with new mouthpiece. So how were the sharks, i suppose they are always hungry. Must be very exciting dive, those waters are famous for tiger and great whites. Thank's for sharing...

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

We have been to South Africa 4 or 5 times now and the incentive is the sharks. There is no other place where you can be guaranteed to see Great Whites, Tigers and Bulls. I did a video quite a while ago about the health issue from using rental gear. While dive store staff are supposed to disinfect all rental gear on its return, I can tell you from experience that it doesn't happen consistently. There are things you can do to protect yourself from sickness. Clearly, it's best to have your own gear. Take care/. Alec

[@andrewmcinnes5447]

good vid

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thanks for watching Andrew. Alec

[@PSDiver]

I would add, checking the power inflation hose. I personally always bring my personal Mask, Fin's and snorkel, but also my regulator since it's my bread and butter. The rest I can rent. But just be aware that rental businesses don't always properly clean their equipment. I was diving the Cenotes of Mexico, when my power inflator stuck in the "On" position, causing me to float up, faster than I could release the air. I quickly disconnected the inflator hose. I still managed to hit a stalactite above me and break a piece off. I continued the rest of my dive, orally inflating the BC as needed. But this accident was due to improper maintenance of the rental equipment. Estevan M

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

That sounds scary. Glad you had the situation under control and didn't get your BC pierced by a rock. See my new video on PIV service for just such a cleaning.

[@michaelclarke8972]

Alec A few points that we should all be aware of: (a) When you look at the pressure gauge when it is not attached to the cylinder it should be reading zero. I once encountered a rental gauge that registered 50 bar off the cylinder but did not notice this. Once attached to the cylinder and cracked I did notice that the fill was very good at about 250 bar (just a bit more than the cylinder was rated). The result? An out of air situation at 20+ meters and a puzzle because the SPG was showing 50 bar but no more air was being given and a very, very, uncomfortable diver. (b) When checking the second stages, make sure that the mouthpiece is complete and that there are no holes/slits in it. Once on board a boat, it could be very difficult to get a good mouthpiece, if any, so finding the problem whilst on land is a good thing. (c) Never, ever, hold a weight belt by the clasp only - weight blocks can easily fall off from the non-clasped end and fall on a toe/foot which, besides being painful, could result in a bone break and the end of scuba diving for quite a period. (d) Check that ALL the dump valves on the BCD work. On the BCD that you filmed, there are at least 3 and possibly 4 - right shoulder, butt (right or left), inflator hose and, possibly, pulling the inflator hose. Again, better to check these out whilst still in the dive centre. Also, make sure that there are no leaks that you can hear in the BCD. In the film, you forgot the hood, bootees and gloves although you mentioned them. Surely, the full-foot fins that you ended up with in the film cannot be used with bootees? Should they have been open-heel fins? As a final point, as an older man and an instructor I would NEVER touch a person, male or female as much as you did in the film. I would demonstrate on myself or just point at the relevant thing on the person. Michael

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Good points Michael. Maybe I'll need to do a 2nd video on this subject and include them. a. What's the diver doing at 20 meters with only 50 BAR? (that's 60' with 750 psi for westerners). A good buddy ought to have noticed the odd pressure reading during the buddy check. b. Few things are worse than a mouthpiece missing a bite tab. Definitely check it. c. I tell my divers to close the belt when it's not around their waist. That is, insert the loose end into the buckle and latch it. Makes it a lot easier to carry too. d. Another good point. I suggest that when you check the BCD inflator, empty the air by using the dump(s). Exactly my point about the fins. I am a senior advisor on Trip Advisor and my review of the dive center criticized them on this. You cannot use boots in full foot fins. Even if you get big fins and get your booted foot into them, they will not stay on. I have to wear boots when diving (partly the cold water but a physiological thing too) and they didn't have any - not even for sale! I finally got a pair from one of their divemasters. Funny how he had them!! Don't go Hollywood on me Michael. Things are different in the real world. Even with a small class, it would take forever to get a group of new divers properly into a BCD for the first time without some help. How do you get one's hair out from under the mask without holding the mask away and pushing the hair aside? They can't see it. How do you check the fit of a wetsuit without poking the back, the legs, the armpits? The only way to check the proper fit of full fins fins is to pull them and feel for a gap at the heel. And often, as in the video, it's necessary to hold a new diver's arm or hand for control - so they don't jump in too soon, or try to walk in fins, or with a small person trying to walk with a tank on for the first time, etc. Stand back and point? Won't work! A new diver has no idea how tight, how close, how high, whatever. They must be shown how to get fitted properly. I just watched the entire video again to assure myself that they was NOTHING in there that even hinted at indecency. Every contact was at an appropriate moment, at an appropriate place and with the appropriate professional demeanor. I think some of you guys are either 1. jealous or 2. read sex into every interaction between people. If number 2, that's in YOUR mind not mine. Thanks for watching. and for your good tips. Alec

[@bevtecdiving6853]

Did you read that in a book Alec wrote?

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

I would've gone for open heel fins instead of full foot fins. Also, test breathe your octo, and keep an eye on the SPG.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Can only pick from what they have, no open heels at this shop but good tips for air and SPG monitoring. A

[@bhovanyi]

I'm a great fan of you and your videos! This episode is one of the funniest, in a weird kind of way. It made me think of your comment, in another episode about Mike Nelson that "... he always gets the girl!" :-) I'm more of a Jacques Cousteau fan, I hope you don't mind. ;-) Keep the videos coming plz!!!!

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

I don't mind at all. JYC certainly introduced the world to the beauty of the underwater world. Sea Hunt was a TV adventure series that made scuba diving exciting and brought millions, literally millions, into the sport. The Silent World, JYC's first film, came out in 1956 (a bit later in the US) and his TV series didn't start until 1966. Sea Hunt was about 10 years before JYC so often your preference is a matter of age. Take care. Alec

[@bethwithell8619]

Hi alec, I'm a UK marine biology student and scuba diver. I'm a massive fan of your videos. I'd love to dive with sharks but I also want to avoid a nibble as much as possible. I know showing no skin and all black is the way to go but I don't know why? Also any other safety tips for cage free shark diving?

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Keep your fingers curled in!! Seriously, despite a lot of money and research, there's no definitive answer on what color to wear, or NOT wear, while shark diving. For a while it was suggested that stripes were good; then yellow was good; but it keeps changing. I suppose if pushed I'd suggest keep your extremities close to your body and make yourself as big and black as possible - maybe hold your buddy close to you to look even bigger. Sharks are bullies and don't like to work too hard for food. If they think you're going to be a problem, they'll stay away. On the other hand, I've also often said that if a big shark decides to bite you, there's little you can do. Comforting huh? Good luck. Alec

[@andrewzenn1719]

I paused your video on a frame at the end. Hahahah My suggestion, when you are done helping with the weight belt, let go of the lady. Hahahahahaha.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Love that!

[@paulhosler7709]

I noticed the DAN sign on the wall behind the counter. I was wondering what your opinion was on dive insurance?

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Indispensable! Is that clear enough? I hate the entire concept of insurance and despise insurance companies as a rule - despite giving them stupid amounts of my income every year. However, I have seen the results of a simple diving accident gone wrong when traveling. If you are traveling outside of Canada or the USA and going scuba diving, having DAN Insurance is more important than checking your air supply!!! Thanks for watching. Alec

[@paulhosler7709]

@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Thank you so much for the advise!

[@tokillamurderer]

@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter wow, I'm surprised that you're that adamant about it. Good to know. I didn't get insurance when I did my only warm water dive trip so far, but maybe I'll consider it next time. Out of curiosity, why is it so important? What is an example of what can go wrong, and what DAN insurance will cover for you?

[@ladelandia9826]

tokillamurderer There is so much that can go wrong! Go to the DAN site, and check out the stories. They share in depth diver experiences that have require medical assistance. Some are very mild, simple cases but others you just don’t see coming. I do not know any serious divers that do not have it.

[@andrewskeith4114]

Don't you just hate it when you go to try on a rental wetsuit and it's still damp, stiff as hell, hole near the crotch, and smells like a dead seal?!

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Ahhh. Memories! Alec

[@tyc17ok78]

Now I could be wrong as you have more experience then I do but when you checked the air was on it looked like it was all the way on isn’t it supposed to be all the way then half a turn the other way

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

The topic of opening the tank valve properly has been addressed more than once. Try to find the videos that deal with it. Start with "Things Your Instructor Told You That Weren't True". The short version is that turning the valve back 1/2 turn was correct in the 50's and even the 60's but not today. Thanks for watching. Alec

[@frankpabon8173]

I would like to Try diving just to get over my fears.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Some dive shops host 'try scuba' nights at local pools or in-house as Scuba 2000 has its own training pool. Give it a try, slow and maybe 2 or more sessions to become comfortable. I know divers who feared going under before controlling their fear and loving diving who became instructors.

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

Awfully nice of the young lady to help pull you into the store. Once inside you could have let go of her. lol I am 66, so can't really fault your procedures.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

I told this many times that the very nice lady was shaking the entire time (never on camera before). She watched it and loved it but others feel they need to judge only on what they think is going on. Kevin did a few takes as she did freeze from nervousness before we kept the video you see today.

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Being another old guy I was just teasing, not criticizing. I apologize if you did not enjoy my humor.

[@jesspeoples3292]

When I travel I always bring my personal gear while on dive trips but I rent my tanks and weights.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

That is the most common practice unless you're a billionaire diver. Are you? A

[@jesspeoples3292]

@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter diving is an expensive hobby but it's so worth it. But I am not rich otherwise I could more do diving and traveling.

[@sailesh3111]

Leave her hand Alec. Lol. )

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

She was shaking so much I couldn't!

[@H2Dwoat]

Hi, how long should you allow for getting equines with hire gear?

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Huh? Sorry H2 but I can make no sense of your question. Are you talking about horses or renting dive gear or renting a horse with dive gear?? I know you are from a Commonwealth country by your use of hire. Please try again. Alec

[@H2Dwoat]

Oops, need to read my comment more carefully before submitting, should be ‘equipped’ not equines 🤪. I am looking to learn to dive somewhere warm and planned on renting gear.

[@flipflop82ful]

@@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter Interesting idea with horseback scuba diving but think a scared horse consume to much air for it to be practical, would require huge tanks. Dolphin saddle instead?

[@ozjohnno]

I like your friend Desiree Alec, can we have a few more videos with her in them?

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Hollywood be damned there's nothing like a good-looking young girl to make a dive trip even more enjoyable. You cannot change natural human behavior - women are NOT attracted to ugly old men; men ARE attracted to pretty, young girls. It is as natural as scratching an itch. If you don't agree, buy a copy of Darwin's Origin of the Species and read the chapter on natural selection. Thanks. Alec

[@alaind831]

oh great, another creepy old man John... Alec, just because we are wired for natural selection doesn't mean we haven't evolved from cave men and that many behaviors are not accepted in a civilized society, like cannibalism, incest or a 30+ years old men in power having sex with 14 years olds... and for the record I for one am glad for what Hollywood recently did. We can only protect our wifes and daughters if we Men also stand up to what has been going on for far too long and men abusing their power. Ok, back to diving...

[@theveryfirst]

What about a dive computer?

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

At this location, rental gear setup included an SPG as standard. Some charge extra for dive computers (due to cost and maintenance). If renting a computer, same checks as an SPG, check pressure, battery level and any required buttons to show information not visible. Thanks for watching. We had a great time in South Africa. Alec

[@jacquespoirier9071]

very professionnal and extremely well done...nothing to add to that, for the puritanists, I pass them behind me.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Thanks Jacques. I aim this at regular guys, not engineering students. Apparently they already know everything. Take care. Alec

[@GIJOE573]

Impossible... I can't even go more than 30 seconds wearing my 1 mil out of the water before I die of heat stroke

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Ah, have you tried ice diving? Now that keeps you cool.

[@dimitrimichaux461]

Alec certainly loves holding her hand 😉

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

I was trying to control her. She had so much energy that she kept jumping around and Kevin had trouble with the camera. I didn't mind though. Alec

[@dimitrimichaux461]

Alec Peirce Scuba Makes me wonder wat would have happened when you would have let go of her😋

[@MrRossored]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣👍🏻👍🏻👌👌😜

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Much appreciate you feedback my friend. A.

[@Christopher_Hampton]

Where is her hood

[@jetfire245]

Oh Alec, you made physical contact very often.

[@alaind831]

yep, sorry Alec but "creepy old man" is all I remember of the video now! really ?

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

You guys must be from Hollywood. Like the FBI - no sense of humor.

[@jetfire245]

Alec Peirce Scuba I said the same thing to my arresting officer after the building went up in flames 😂

[@tarehjernetarehjerne4082]

Does she look uncomfortable? No? Shut it then

[@derickdevindavis]

The touching, IMO, was over the top. I enjoy the videos too, but I was uncomfortable for her. A male diver would not have been wrist grabbed this way or that much.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

You had to be there to know how nervous she was. Read the other comments but I know she wanted to do it but froze up when Kevin started shooting.

[@Inveterat]

Because noone would want to soothe a man, nor would he need it. May look a bit too familiar but I really think he only meant well.

[@Katzenjammers]

“She was nervous so I touched and grabbed her.” Wtf. Don’t think so. I like the content and delivery of this channel, but this was creepy.

[@woody1980]

She's my type ! Very sweet and sexy at the same time

[@GotGoodLife]

really weird how you kept touching her and holding her arm for no reason.

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

Maybe we're good friends. That's what good friends do. Just out shopping in the mall I often hold my wife's hand. Or my daughter's. Or granddaughter's When I meet my sons, (one is 30, the other is 50) we embrace whether in private or the middle of a busy restaurant. It's called love. Google it. It's a not-nice world when normal, healthy, human kindness is looked at as abnormal or weird. In fact, Desiree had not made a video before and I was holding her hand or arm to keep her still or to direct her to move in a certain manner or direction so the video would be smooth and efficient. We discussed this all in advance. I must confess that when we were finished she gave me a big hug and kiss right in front of my wife! Shocking huh!! Thanks for watching. Alec

[@GotGoodLife]

might just be that there are two generations between us, did not mean to offend you, i really love your channel to bits!

[@tomthompson7400]

i wouldnt dare put my hands under a student / womans bcd straps without saying i was going to do it first ,,,, open to all sorts of allegations ,,, bad practice.

[@anas_moto]

Alec Peirce Scuba sadly this is the world we live in these days where you are being questioned in doubt for being nice, informative, and having a appealing character. I came across your channel days before and i must say i am watching daily vids and the level of information i am gaining from you is sharp and straight to the point. Unlike 95% of dive instructors or so called product reviewers. Keep up the great work sir, and i thank you for your efforts to elevate our level of knowledge and keep us safe down there 👌👌👌

[@jellyfishattack]

I'd rather a male (or female) instructor made sure, than didn't, if I (I'm a woman) or any diver is brand new. My 1st instructor actually was fired, so I had to go through all the written exams and part of the in-water skills the following year. Thankfully he was fired, he was terrible, rude, and 110% unsafe; e.g. he asked me why you lie an unconscious diver on their left side!! You don't need to be a diver to know the answer, and the rest of his instruction was equally hopeless and downright dangerous. Back to the story - he put on my gear (BCD and cylinder) while I was sitting on a dock, but obviously he didn't bother actually checking to see if the cummerbund was tight enough. When I hopped into the water, my tank was securely attached to my BCD, but the BCD itself let everything flap on my back like a flag in the wind. When he was securing the straps he even said, ''this is the part when I get sued''. I have to mention that he lost 500psi attaching his hub, and he blamed the dive shop's tank! There was nothing wrong with the dive shop's gear. It's a shame that male instructors are (quite understandably) afraid of allegations, but please know that 99.99999% of women can tell the difference between being helpful and just copping a feel. It's good enough to explain that you're going to do/check X once, after that a woman should understand what's going on, and that there is a need for it. The woman in the video looked like she wasn't offended/uncomfortable, and reaching for a cummerbund isn't quite like grabbing breasts. To me that wasn't sexual, but true, you never know. Now, I feel bad for the men who have to put parachutes on women.

[@djknauss1]

dont be a creep, alec

[@tarehjernetarehjerne4082]

??? He is a lot of things but creepy is not one of them

[@Teemingmasses]

Yeah. No way he'd be holding the hands of a male like that. Also, stop with the "You're a smart girl" dominance bit. It's old. You wouldn't speak like that to a man you respected. Otherwise would be a great video. :(

[@bomboogaloo7582]

Teemingmasses Damn, had to complain about something....

[@AlecPeirceScuba_SeaHunter]

1. You'd be surprised who I hold hands with. I'm very secure in my manliness and don't have to suppress my emotions so I won't look cool. I'm way past looking cool. It comes with age. You'll see. 2. When anyone demonstrates surprising perception or creativity or maturity, I share my admiration. That's another trait that comes with maturity. Being able to speak openly and honestly to anyone - man, woman or child. 3. Watch a few more of my videos and you'll discover that what you see is what you get. It's just me and all the "Stop with the ...." have no effect. Hope you picked up some scuba ideas between watching for things you don't like. Alec

[@toms7947]

Wow! You are very sensitive. Stop looking for a reason to be offended, it is too stressful.

[@Teemingmasses]

"I was trying to control her. She had so much energy that she kept jumping around and Kevin had trouble with the camera. I didn't mind though. Alec" "I didn't mind tho" is code for she's hot, so somehow, the question of whether she minds doesn't matter much. She was definitely not jumping around. I rarely comment on videos, but this one disappointed me so much. Please, show me one video of you suiting up a man where you touch him at every opportunity. Seriously. And please stop with the patronizing "Maturity" bs. If you can't stop a minute and wonder if you might have crossed a line, you might have some growing up to do.

[@toms7947]

@@Teemingmasses I would consider avoiding the internet if I were you, too much to handle. Lots of people that can offend you.

[@tomthompson7400]

no over pressure valve check , no breathe down on regs neg pressure check , no gauge watching while breathing off regs ,,, whats going on here ,,,, half a job ,, once your on the boat doing a pre dive or buddy check , its a bit late to spot any of the probs watch this vid back at 2x speed with no sound ,,, then explain why your hands are never off that poor girl ,, this is not good. i like your videos , but this one isnt so hot.