What You’ll Learn

This course emphasizes structured search patterns and recovery methods to maximize success and minimize risk:

• Planning and organizing search and recovery dives

• Selecting and executing effective search patterns (e.g., circular, jackstay, expanding square)

• Proper use of dive tools such as lift bags, lines, markers, and search grids

• Techniques to safely recover objects of various sizes and weights

• Underwater communication, teamwork, and surface support coordination

• Risk management and environmental considerations

• Accurate documentation and reporting of search results

Skill Development

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to:

• Conduct professional, systematic underwater searches

• Apply multiple recovery techniques

• Use specialized gear like lift bags with control and confidence

• Work as part of a dive team with clear task delegation

• Evaluate safety and environmental factors during search operations

Prerequisites

To enroll in this specialty you must be:

• Certified SDI Open Water Scuba Diver or equivalent

• At least 12 years old (age may vary by location)

• Comfortable with basic buoyancy control and dive skills

Course Components

• Knowledge Development: Online or classroom sessions covering theory, search patterns, safety, and procedures

• Confined/Practical Sessions: Practice search and lift techniques in controlled water

• Open Water Training: Full execution of search plans and real-world recovery scenarios

Why Take This Course?

• Gain advanced navigation and teamwork skills

• Boost confidence in challenging underwater situations

• Be a valuable resource in dive operations, local cleanup efforts, or community events

• Expand your scuba skill set beyond recreational diving