Getting it Under Control

Octopus Control: The member organizations of the Recreational Scuba Training Council (RSTC) recommend that alternate-air-source second stages be plainly visible and mounted securely in the triangular region between the diver’s mouth and the lower corners of his or her rib cage. Just Add Water sells a wide variety of devices for doing just that.

When shopping for such a device, bring your regulator along so that you can make certain the octopus holder you are buying fits your alternate-air-source second stage’s mouthpiece. It should be easy to use, hold the second stage securely and release the second stage, when needed, with a firm tug.

Console Control: Nearly all new consoles come with multiple attachment points to which you can install a variety of attachment hardware. These range from simple clips to high-tech retractors.

Solve Problems; Don’t Create New Ones: The best place to attach such hardware is to a D-ring mounted directly on your BC. One thing you will want to avoid, however, is clipping off to the D-rings found at the end of your BC’s shoulder adjustment strap, as this does little to decrease the amount of dangle.

What should you do if your old BC lacks shoulder-mounted or other D-rings designed specifically for clipping off consoles and second stages? Or if your console lacks attachment points for installing clips or other hardware? These are signs that it may be time to replace your out-of-date equipment with more modern gear that is both safer and more environmentally friendly.

If we can answer further questions concerning getting your dangling equipment under control, don’t hesitate to call or visit us.

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