Who disagrees with DIR and why?

[jasondbaker]

Foreword: The long hose and bungeed backup was not invented by DIR. It was invented by cave divers, then adopted by wreck divers, and finally trickled down to us (the little people).

I don't understand the "control" analogy. You may feel uncomfortable taking a reg out of your mouth during a dive. But that is why you should practice these skills (just like mask clearing). You have two sources capable of delivering gas. Your buddy has zero. Who is in control again?

It is likely that in an emergency your buddy will rip the reg out of your mouth. He isn't going to drift up to you calmly and give the OOA signal like in your pool class. If you aren't prepared for this you very well may experience a "control" issue.

I guarantee you will be able to locate your bungeed backup under your chin. Some people can even put it in their mouth without using their hands. Now where was that octo again? Clipped to a octo holder, tucked in the belt, floating behind you? (remember the primary/octo retrieval sweep manuver you were taught in OW class)

Question: Is it easier for buddies to maintain bouyancy with a 2.5ft hose or a 7 foot hose? I am sending you the answer telepathicly right now.

Scubadog, you and I need to go out to the lake and do some air sharing drills. Just be sure to place your new hose order before you go out.