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Home , YMCA SCUBA Program

YMCA of the USA SCUBA START-UP KIT

Many people both young and old yearn for underwater exploration. The mystery and fantasy of what lies beneath the water’s surface have intrigued countless civilizations. Today, through equipment designed by , millions of divers participate in underwater exploration through the use of SCUBA (Self-Contained Underwater Apparatus) equipment.

To participate in one must first be properly trained by a certified SCUBA instructor. After training that includes academic study, physical skills development and training in actual diving environments (open water), receives a SCUBA certification card, also known as a “c-card.”

There are many SCUBA certification agencies worldwide, the majority of which are in the United States. They are responsible for developing and maintaining SCUBA training and certification standards that their instructors are to follow when teaching students any type of SCUBA-related course. The certification agencies also are responsible for issuing SCUBA c-cards after successful training and testing has taken place.

Due to a demand for safety, YMCA of the USA introduced its SCUBA Program training standards in 1959. YMCA SCUBA led the diving industry with several firsts including the first national SCUBA instructor training course, and the first SCUBA rescue course. In the 40 years since our inception, YMCA SCUBA continues to provide the highest level of community-oriented education for divers and instructors based on the principles of the YMCA triangle: the Spirit, the Mind and the Body. These principles are the core philosophy of the YMCA, and YMCA SCUBA bases all training and programs on these ideals.

Today, over 30% of all YMCAs offer SCUBA programming, and several international YMCA federations have modeled their own SCUBA programs after the YMCA of the USA’s SCUBA Program. This YMCA SCUBA Start-Up Kit contains valuable information on: • Offering SCUBA programming to compliment other aquatic programs • Selecting a qualified SCUBA instructor and staff • Keys to success for running SCUBA programs • Promotional ideas • Logistics and facility management • Facility and equipment needs • Pool and classroom scheduling • Liability and issues • Budget considerations and common fee structures • Understand how to use SCUBA to increase membership • Learn how SCUBA-related activities can benefit fundraisers

So, your Y is interested in offering SCUBA? Here are some items to take into consideration when planning to offer SCUBA at your YMCA:

Is there a demand in your community for SCUBA training and/or a dive club? Look within your membership by posting an interest flyer. You can also get a significant amount of interest outside the Y. YMCAs can have flourishing SCUBA programs in towns that have little or no dive sites near them. The fact is, anyone who wants to enjoy a lifetime of SCUBA activities must be trained and certified.

Is there a dive shop in the area? When offering SCUBA programming, your instructor will have to secure SCUBA equipment for students to use during the course. This is especially true for beginner-level courses, as more advanced divers usually spend several hundred or thousands of dollars on equipment. A local dive shop can assist your instructor in rental equipment and especially with the numerous air-fills that a SCUBA tank (cylinder) needs during a course.

Does your facility or another facility have a pool over six feet deep? Certain portions of can be taught in lap pools in as little as 4-5 feet in depth. However, it is crucial that deeper water be used in skills development for skills involving changes and water entries. If your Y has a lap pool, you can still offer SCUBA programming as long as some pool sessions are conducted at a deeper water facility.

Does your facility have adequate space and time for SCUBA programs? This depends on the course(s) your YMCA and your SCUBA instructor would like to offer. Most YMCAs offer the beginning SCUBA course called . This course requires a minimum 12 hours of classroom and 12 hours of pool instruction. Space depends on the number of participants. See chapter 20 in the YMCA Aquatic Management Manual for additional information.

Does your YMCA have a relationship with an existing SCUBA instructor? If “yes”, see YMCA Aquatic Management Manual, chapter 20 crossing over SCUBA instructors to YMCA SCUBA. If “no”, log on to www.ymcascuba.org and select “Find an Instructor”. There, a list of YMCA SCUBA instructors are listed alphabetically by city. Or, is there a dive shop in your area that you could approach about teaching YMCA SCUBA at your facility? Or, does your facility have a member or program staff person that is a highly qualified candidate for SCUBA leadership development?

YMCA SCUBA Programming YMCA SCUBA offers training standards and certification for over 40 levels of SCUBA courses. Courses vary in hours, prerequisites, course content, skill development, open water diving opportunities, and instructor credentials to teach. All course particulars, guidelines and standards are available in the YMCA SCUBA Standards and Procedures Manual, 2000 Edition. The following is a list of common YMCA SCUBA courses and their descriptions:

Snorkeling (non-SCUBA) YMCA introduces individuals and families to the sport of snorkeling. While there is no age requirement for the activity, snorkeling is a recreation shared by the whole family. Allowing people to examine underwater magic from above, snorkeling appeals to those planning a vacation in warm, tropical waters or others simply wanting to enjoy another aquatic activity.

Skin Diving (non-SCUBA) YMCA Skin Diving is designed for swimmers and snorkelers who want to expand their aquatic exploration. With simple equipment and basic techniques, swimmers will find this course to be enjoyable and challenging. The underwater world is a fascinating place that can be discovered with a minimal amount of effort and the use of a mask, fins and .

Open Water Diver Learning to SCUBA dive is safe, affordable and requires a modest amount of training. An entry-level certification course takes approximately 32 hours to complete during day or evening classes from a couple of weekends to several weeks. In order to earn a SCUBA certification, you will participate in classroom sessions and practice essential diving skills in a pool. Finally, you will test your knowledge on a written exam and apply your skills during training dives in a lake, quarry, spring or ocean. Upon completion, you will receive a certification card that identifies you as a diver, allowing you to rent SCUBA equipment, participate in advanced training and explore exotic diving destinations.

Open Water II Diver YMCA Open Water II is designed to give certified SCUBA divers additional open water dives. This guided experience is important for new divers who want more training before going out on their own and diving without supervision.

Advanced Open Water Diver The YMCA Advanced Open Water Diver course is for divers wanting to expand their knowledge and diving experience to include varying diving environments and an introduction to specialty diving.

Specialty Courses SCUBA diving is one of the most rewarding activities. Numerous hobbies are integrated into the . Our specialty courses permit the diver to gain comprehensive abilities in virtually any field of aquatic endeavor. Specialty Certification Courses: Aquatic Environmentalist Boat Diver Cavern Diver Computer Assisted Diver Diver Equipment Service Ice Diver Night Diver Diver Provider Public Safety Diver Ecology Research Diver Search and Recovery SLAM Rescue Underwater Navigation Underwater Photographer Wreck Diver

Leadership Courses A certified YMCA Divemaster provides on-site leadership for groups of certified divers during recreational or for students during training under the direct supervision of the YMCA SCUBA Instructor. conduct tours and supervise diving activities. Divemasters can work at dive resorts, on dive boats and in dive shops all over the world.

Assistant Instructor YMCA Assistant Instructor certification is a required step in the development toward YMCA SCUBA Instructor. Assistant Instructors may teach the YMCA Snorkeling and Skin Diving courses. During the Open Water course, Assistant Instructors assist in classroom training, pool training and the open water dives under the direct supervision of the Instructor.

Instructor In 1959 the YMCA developed SCUBA training standards for instructors. These standards remain the most thorough and comprehensive in the diving industry today. When it comes to SCUBA certification, trust is an important aspect of training. YMCA SCUBA Instructors follow the philosophy of the YMCA while building self-esteem and nurturing personal growth in divers. YMCA leadership prides itself with maintaining values. In a sport such as SCUBA diving, it is important for those participating to have values, good moral character and ethics. YMCA SCUBA Instructors instill character development in their students by promoting caring, honesty, respect and responsibility during dive training. Instructor certification permits an individual to teach SCUBA students how to become competent divers. The Instructor promotes safe diving and upholds the standards of YMCA SCUBA. The Instructor also teaches many specialty and leadership courses.

Divers with Disabilities People with disabilities can easily participate in SCUBA training. YMCA SCUBA from the very beginning of nationally certified sport SCUBA diving education and training has taken the lead in the development of safe, educated, well-trained sport divers, who are SCUBA diving for the enjoyment of the sport while minimizing through training the risks involved. YMCA SCUBA is committed to the concepts and principles of the YMCA including the development of the Spirit, the Mind and the Body. In keeping with the philosophy of the YMCA, YMCA SCUBA does not allow discrimination against people with disabilities in any of their programs including Skin and SCUBA diving. It is the policy of YMCA SCUBA to allow their instructor flexibility in administration of teaching standards to reasonably accommodate the needs of students with disabilities. Based on the student’s ability to successfully meet the requirements and challenges of the program the instructor must determine if there should be any type of conditions placed on the diver. The conditions will determine the level of certification the diver has achieved.

Springfield College Academic credit toward a bachelor’s degree is available for Open Water Diver and Instructor at Springfield College. Located in Springfield, Mass., Springfield College has a distinguished history as an official YMCA educational institution. The academic credit earned through this process can be used in a Springfield College degree program or applied as transfer credit toward a bachelor’s degree at most colleges in the United States.

International Recognition In 1980 YMCA SCUBA became a federation of the World Underwater Federation (C.M.A.S.), thus allowing our instructors and divers the distinct designation of this international certification. Due to our high standards, YMCA SCUBA remains the only SCUBA certification organization in the United States to offer the C.M.A.S. international certification card.

C.M.A.S. (Confederation Mondiale Des Activities Subaquatiques) is the only world diving organization. This organization is composed of some 14,000 diving clubs, 82 national federations and 4.5 million divers. C.M.A.S. international certification cards are issued by equivalence in 82 countries and at all levels, for both divers and instructors. The certification notes the following benefits: • Global acceptance and international recognition • Allowance to dive in countries where authorization is needed • Ability to rent equipment and refill cylinders abroad • Ease in joining international diving groups

In order to receive your C.M.A.S. international certification card or instructor certification, please submit the following: Your name and address A copy of your present YMCA SCUBA certification card (front and back) $25 payable to YMCA of the USA or by credit card authorization

Keys to A Successful SCUBA Program 1. A SCUBA instructor who displays strong values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. 2. A good relationship between the SCUBA instructor and the Aquatic/Program/Executive Directors. 3. A mutually beneficial financial relationship between the SCUBA instructor and the YMCA. 4. Promotion of classes in YMCA materials, fliers, posters, banners, a SCUBA bulletin board, both inside and outside the YMCA. 5. Offering multiple levels of SCUBA training, and hosting a SCUBA club. 6. Having SCUBA involved in other Y events like open houses, fundraisers, and lifeguard training.

How to Select an Instructor Selecting an instructor to teach skin diving and SCUBA diving is the same as selecting an instructor to teach any other aquatic course or program. Your criteria for hiring staff should also be applicable to hiring a SCUBA instructor.

If your YMCA has a staff member or volunteer who is an avid SCUBA diver with leadership qualities, they may progress through SCUBA leadership courses on their road to becoming a SCUBA instructor. However, training to become a SCUBA instructor is quite involved. There a hundreds of dives required, hundreds of training hours, and many costs associated with becoming a SCUBA instructor. Plus, to develop as a leader in YMCA SCUBA requires YMCA SCUBA instructors and trainers to accomplish the training.

Perhaps it is easier to find an existing YMCA SCUBA instructor locally. These individuals will have the latest YMCA SCUBA standards and guidelines, professional liability insurance, and annual renewal requirements. To find a currently certified YMCA SCUBA instructor, contact the YMCA of the USA SCUBA Program, or visit the YMCA SCUBA web page to search an instructor directory by state.

If there is not an existing YMCA SCUBA instructor locally, nor is there a SCUBA instructor candidate at your facility, then finding a local SCUBA instructor may be your next option. SCUBA instructors are mostly found through dive shops. There are also independent instructors who may teach at colleges, universities, high schools, recreation centers, apartment complexes, and privately. Either through a shop or independently, these instructors will have certifications and credentials through SCUBA certification organizations. Many dive shops not only sell SCUBA equipment and sponsor dive trips, they also offer SCUBA training and certification.

If a local SCUBA instructor is not a YMCA certified instructor, that person can go through a YMCA SCUBA instructor crossover. Once a successfully certified and active YMCA SCUBA instructor, a local YMCA may host official YMCA SCUBA courses. The YMCA SCUBA Instructor is highly trained, highly educated. He or she is teaching SCUBA through the mission of the YMCA: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. A YMCA SCUBA instructor promotes the YMCA, by presenting the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Staff Member vs. Contracted Employee When making staff decisions regarding SCUBA instructor positions, YMCAs either hire an instructor as a staff member or contract with an instructor. CAUTION: The least desirable method of SCUBA programming in a YMCA is to allow an instructor or dive shop to rent the Y’s pool. This situation may be problematic to a YMCA due the following: • Potential property tax issues regarding a for-profit entity (dive shop or instructor) conducting their business on not-for-profit property (YMCA). For further information on Tax Challenge issues in YMCAs, contact the YMCA of the USA General Counsel’s office. • A conflict of interest may arise if an instructor is soliciting members for enrolling in courses outside the YMCA, offering dive trips not condoned by the Y, or selling SCUBA equipment. • The programming conducted in the Y’s pool may include training standards not condoned by the YMCA of the USA. These may include standards, practices and/or trends promoted by other SCUBA certification agencies such as allowing children under 12 years of age participating in SCUBA and/or “abbreviated/short” courses.

Staff Member A SCUBA instructor hired as a YMCA staff member have many advantages. A hired instructor is a “part” of the local YMCA. Other staff will interact with the SCUBA instructor and be familiar with the courses offered. She will “talk the talk” and promote the mission of the YMCA. The facility will have financial control of the program through structured course fees. There is also an area of quality assurance as the aquatic or program directors knows the instructor is following YMCA SCUBA training standards and procedures. A staff SCUBA instructor may volunteer with other events such as: • “I Tried SCUBA” introduction to SCUBA diving during YMCA open houses. • Demonstrating SCUBA rescues to lifeguards training in the YMCA Lifeguard training courses. • Assisting in SCUBA-related fundraisers.

Contracted Instructors A contracted SCUBA instructor may never feel a “part” of the YMCA. Staff-related functions may not include contracted individuals. Since a contracted instructor is not very involved in the local YMCA, there is often a lack of knowledge of them and/or their courses. Sometimes a conflict of interest may arise if they solicit members to take courses outside the Y, sell equipment, etc. There must be detailed conditions built into a contract if the contracted employee option is considered. Mutually agree upon and state: • Pay • Training Standards • Textbooks • Certifications issued and procedures • Do’s and Don’ts

Sample Interview Questions Here are some sample questions to ask potential staff instructor candidates to determine their qualifications for working at the YMCA: 1. What is your personal philosophy on teaching SCUBA? 2. How long are your typical courses? 3. How many students have you certified? Do you have student references that we(I) may contact? 4. How is the development of an individual’s spirit, mind and body accomplished through SCUBA courses? 5. How would you promote the YMCA to your students who are not members?

The Role of the Aquatic/Program Director • Check instructor’s credentials annually. • Ensure that certifications are turned in promptly after class completion. • Run surveys or questionnaires about program likes, dislikes and interests. • Ensure the facility is listed as an additional insured on the instructor’s professional liability insurance. • Ensure that student waivers and releases are completed and that the facility is listed on the YMCA SCUBA Statement of Understanding Waiver and Release forms. • Ensure that there are equipment maintenance records for all rental or owned SCUBA equipment used during the course.

Who Are the Other Agencies? NAUI – National Association of Underwater Instructors PADI – Professional Association of Diving Instructors NASDS – National Association of Scuba Diving Schools SSI – Scuba Schools International IDEA – International Diving Educators Association PDIC – Instructors Corporation NASE – National Association of Scuba Educators

What are some of the differences of these agencies and the YMCA?

Each one of these organizations has varying standards for training and education. The hours of training, skill level and age of the participant varies from agency to agency. For example, some agencies allow children under the age of twelve to learn how to dive. This protocol is not recommended by the YMCA Medical Advisory Committee. Another difference is no other agency stands for the mission of the YMCA.

Frequently Asked Questions 1. How old do I need to be to learn to SCUBA dive? Answer: In order to take a YMCA SCUBA certification course, individuals must be 15 years of age or older. Children ages 12-14 may earn the Junior Open Water that requires them to dive with an adult diver.

2. How long does a certification course last? Answer: The traditional YMCA SCUBA Open Water course includes approximately 32 hours of training in classroom and pool or confined water. These classes occur during day or evening classes from a couple of weekends to several weeks, depending on scheduling.

3. How much does a certification course cost? Answer: The cost of a course depends upon the class location, size, instructor, checkout dive destination and materials included.

4. What equipment will I need to begin a course? Answer: With most instructors, you need only a mask, snorkel and fins. Instructors provide other equipment and materials during the course, but this varies.

5. How do I get started? Answer: To begin a certification course, you first need to contact a YMCA SCUBA Instructor in your area. You can locate an instructor on our directory or by calling YMCA SCUBA headquarters. The instructor will give you class schedules, costs, needed materials/equipment, class location, etc. Learning to SCUBA dive is safe, affordable and requires a modest amount of training. An entry-level certification course takes approximately 32 hours to complete during day or evening classes from a couple of weekends to several weeks. In order to earn a SCUBA certification, you will participate in classroom sessions and practice essential diving skills in a pool. Finally, you will test your knowledge on a written exam and apply your skills during training dives in a lake, quarry, spring or ocean. Upon completion, you will receive a certification card that identifies you as a trained diver, allowing you to rent SCUBA equipment, participate in advanced training and explore diving destinations.

6. What if there isn’t a YMCA facility in my area? Answer: With over 2200 YMCAs in the United States and access to over 1200 YMCA pools and aquatic facilities, YMCA SCUBA is the ideal way to develop as a diver or instructor. Outside YMCA facilities, YMCA SCUBA Instructors are widely sought after and active in colleges and universities, dive shops and recreational institutions throughout this country and abroad.

SCUBA Programs Management Red Flags and Common Problems In a majority of instances SCUBA instructors are SCUBA professionals, not YMCA professionals. They have been teaching courses their way for a long time. Now, as they teach within a YMCA setting, they may have to conduct their scheduling, finances, and advertising differently to reflect proper YMCA procedures.

Here are some common problems that can be avoided by recognizing and preparing for ahead of time:

Instructor Problems My YMCA does not pay me in a reasonable amount of time. In a common SCUBA course there are many expenses to conduct the course. Either the instructor or the YMCA would pay these program-related costs. These costs include equipment rental, air fills, student textbooks, open water dive fees, and certification card fees. Depending on the pay structure set up by the YMCA, if an instructor pays these expenses, but has not received payment from the Y, then the instructor is put in a financial burden. One way to handle this is to have the YMCA pay all associated program expenses, and have the instructor paid for their teaching.

My Aquatic Director wants me to have a lifeguard on duty during SCUBA classes, but I am SCUBA Lifesaving and Accident Management (SLAM Rescue) certified. According to the YMCA of the USA Principles of YMCA Aquatics Manual, lifeguards are to be present at all times the facility/pool is in operation. This is part of the YMCA’s risk management and accident preparedness plans, and should not be modified for SCUBA classes.

Lap swimming keeps getting more hours and more lanes, and is interfering with my SCUBA classes. Facility management is often dictated by the more popular programs that members request.

My YMCA tells me that classes will be cancelled if not enough people sign up. Often, if a YMCA is handling all program costs including payment to the instructor, then the YMCA has the right to maintain registration minimums. However, if an instructor handles course registration, they may run a course with only a couple of students.

Common Student Problems I did not know there would be hidden costs in the SCUBA class. When advertising YMCA SCUBA courses it is important to disclose all required course costs prior to the students committing to training. See Course Costs and Budgeting for a guideline of related SCUBA programming expenses.

I did not pass the swim evaluation, can I get my money back? It is strongly recommended when a student can not pass the swim evaluation prior to taking classes, that he get training in snorkeling or skin diving. It may be best to recommend YMCA Swim Lessons depending on level of ability. The local YMCA’s policy on payment will dictate if/how refunds can be handled. A good option may be enrolling the diver in YMCA Snorkeling, YMCA Skin Diving, or even YMCA Swim Lessons.

I still have not received my SCUBA certification card. Certifications may take as long as one month to be processed and sent back to the instructors, facilities or students. Instructors should turn in YMCA SCUBA Certification Forms immediately after all required coursework has been completed. Instructors should not hold-up an entire class while they may be waiting for one student to make up any incomplete portions of the course. This leads to further delays with the rest of the students. One way to ease pressure from students requesting the whereabouts of their certifications, is to have the instructor issue a temporary card by completing the YMCA SCUBA Dive and Training Log Book.

Facility Management for SCUBA Here are some key suggestions to supervising SCUBA programs at the YMCA: • Follow YMCA of the USA Principles of YMCA Aquatics manual. • Have lifeguards on duty during SCUBA courses. • Use “soft-shot” . These forms of diving weights use lead-shot in a heavy duty bag instead of molded hard lead. If dropped from a belt, these soft-shot weights are easier on feet and toes, as well as on pool tiles. • Have rinse stations set up to rinse equipment off after pool and open water sessions. • Plastic or rubber pool deck mats are ideal at poolside for areas that SCUBA equipment will be set-up and disassembled. • Have kits and Oxygen on hand and available for unexpected diving emergencies. For more information on Oxygen use for aquatic emergencies contact Kay Smiley, Specialty Consultant for Aquatics and Scuba at 800-872-9622, ext. 2872 or www.ymcaexchange.org. Go to programs, Aquatics, Oxygen frequently asked questions. • Check instructor’s and assistant’s credentials annually.

Promotional Ideas Program participation for any YMCA program or service depends on letting your membership know what is available to them. Frequently, YMCAs offer programs that are offered nowhere else in the community, so advertising programs outside the YMCA to non-members is important too.

Fliers – Fliers are as inexpensive or as expensive as the YMCA wants. A simple one-page, black and white flier can give enough information to get people interested in and sign up for SCUBA classes at the Y. Fliers can be mailed, posted, or stacked for people to read and take action. To take action is to get a member or non-member to take the next SCUBA classes. Information should include: • What the members will do – Members will take classes for YMCA SCUBA certification in whatever course topic that is offered. These classes will include classroom lectures and pool sessions. Students will learn academics and underwater skills to be able to successfully and enjoyably participate in SCUBA diving activities. • What the members will receive (once course is successfully completed) – superior dive training leading to a YMCA SCUBA certification card. • Who is teaching the course – The name and possibly the contact information of the instructor(s) teaching the course could be included on the fliers. • How much will the course cost – Since there are so many costs associated with SCUBA courses (see section ##), it is extremely important for the YMCA to list ALL course costs that the students will be required to pay. “Hidden costs” are not fair to those signing up for any program and therefore should be exposed. Additional course costs are negotiated between the YMCA and the SCUBA instructor. If students are required to purchase additional items (dive tables, textbooks, watch, etc.) or pay for additional services (open water dive trip), then include that in the course advertising materials. • When is the course conducted – Not only does a flier tell the course beginning and ending dates, but it also details class times for classroom, pool and open water sessions.

Scheduling Scheduling any course that has particular facility requirements such as a pool or classroom can be challenging. There are several ways to schedule SCUBA courses at a YMCA. Here are some scheduling tips for SCUBA facility management considerations: • Schedule SCUBA courses during “off-peak” times (7-9 p.m. , 8-10p.m. , etc.). • Nights are popular as well as weekends. • Sometimes it is appropriate to schedule courses before or after YMCA operating hours (proper staffing required). • Classrooms should be conducive to learning, i.e. proper lighting, minimal distractions, and proper visual aid equipment. • Pools should be scheduled with minimal distractions in mind. SCUBA classes may be shared with other aquatic programs. However, a water aerobics class may prove to be problematic when scheduled during a SCUBA class because of the loud music and vocal instructor commands of the aerobics class. Partition SCUBA classes away from other aquatic programs. Lap swimmers or even lifeguard courses can share the pool with SCUBA. Simply reserve lanes for SCUBA. It is best to have access to both shallow and deep water in the pool for SCUBA training. Do not allow divers to wander under lap swimmers or into other aquatic program’s areas.

Course Costs & Budgeting SCUBA diving, by nature, is not an inexpensive hobby. Many people look towards cost-cutting measures to get their c-card. Often dive shops will advertise specials that are ridiculously low in price. However, in reality, the hidden costs add up quickly and it does not turn out to be such a bargain after all.

It is important to remain competitive to a degree, however it is more important to realize that YMCA SCUBA programming offers more comprehensive training, knowledge and skill development. Often YMCA SCUBA training will be conducted over a longer period of time than other SCUBA certification courses. This is good as the more time a diver is in the water and has contact with the instructor, then the more learning and development can take place. So what is the price for the most thorough SCUBA training courses? Let’s take a look at the costs.

Common course costs for the Open Water Diver course: 1. Instructor pay – Instructors may get compensated for their teaching and expertise as a SCUBA instructor in several ways. They can be compensated per student, per class, per hour, etc. Whatever way is negotiated, consideration must be given to the annual costs associated with remaining a current (or active) instructor with a SCUBA certification organization: • Instructor renewal $100 • Professional liability insurance $450 • Continuing education (courses) $25-$300+ • Personal equipment upkeep $50-$100 In fact, just becoming a SCUBA instructor could cost several hundred to thousands of dollars. Be reasonable and fair when negotiating instructors’ pay.

2. Equipment rental – Each student will be required to use a SCUBA unit during courses. For beginning divers, it is not possible for them to purchase their own SCUBA equipment (tank, regulator and compensator) without first being trained and certified. This means the instructor or facility is responsible for the availability of student equipment. This is often accomplished through rental equipment.

Most often, a local dive shop will have the amount of equipment necessary to rent to an entire class. Dive shops keep detailed service records on their equipment, and they have personnel trained by the equipment manufacturers to work on SCUBA systems. Sometimes an independent instructor may have enough sets of equipment to supply a class. However, keep in mind that the instructor must have special training and credentials to service SCUBA equipment. In some cases, YMCAs own sets of equipment for use during the course. In these cases again, the equipment must be properly serviced.

Rented SCUBA equipment may be for the pool only or may be for the pool and open water. In some cases discounts from dive shops may apply when renting equipment for multiple weeks. A rough guideline is that a diver could rent a complete SCUBA unit (tank, regulator and buoyancy compensator) for about $30 for a weekend. However, many dive shops consider their rental equipment overhead, not rental costs. Obviously, the less cost of renting equipment, the less the course costs would be.

3. Air fills – Filling SCUBA tanks with air is often included in equipment rental costs. However, if the Y or the instructor owns their equipment, then they would have to go to a dive shop to get their tanks filled. Tank fills range from free to $5 for air, and perhaps more for specialized gas mixes such as Nitrox.

4. Textbook, workbook, and learning materials – Students are required to have resources from which they study and learn. This can be accomplished through any resources that covers the academic content included in the YMCA SCUBA Standards and Procedures Manual. Other dive certification organizations have student resources. However, this often confuses the brand of course being offered. If it is a YMCA SCUBA course using NAUI books, then students may question the course. YMCA SCUBA recommends the Graver Scuba Diving Manual, 3rd edition available through the YMCA Program Store. 800 747-0089 Sample resources and price range include: • Textbook (Graver’s SCUBA Diving) $22.00 • Workbook (to accompany textbooks) $5-$8 • Dive Tables (YMCA SCUBA Sport Diving Tables) $4-$8 • Book $5-$15

5. Certification fees – Certification fees for most YMCA SCUBA courses and specialty courses are $12 per certification/ $15 after June 30, 2004.

6. Required student gear* – Students may be required to purchase items that are fitted personally to them and may not be appropriate sharing or renting. These items include mask, snorkel, fins and an underwater timing device such as a water-resistant watch. • Mask: $25-$75 • Snorkel: $10-$40 • Fins: $30-$125 (Booties $20-$40) • Watch: $30-$200 *This is paid for by the student and should not be entered into the YMCA course costs.

7. Checkout dives – Students must dive in an open water diving environment before being certified divers. These open water “checkout dives” are commonly held at local dive sites such as lakes, springs, sinkholes, quarries, rivers, beaches and oceans. Depending on the site, costs for access may be incurred. Paying for parking at a local lake or even paying for two-days of boat dives are part of the checkout dive costs. Sometimes, it is appropriate to take new students to warm-water diving destinations so they have a very pleasurable experience their first times diving. In this case having a dive trip planed with travel and accommodations costs is a must. • State parks, quarries, sinks, lakes, etc. Free-$30 • Two-tank boat dive $25-$80

8. Classroom/Pool Fees – Sometimes there are facility usage fees or rental fees for programs. However, this is not ideal when a YMCA has their own in-house programs. Neither is it ideal to have an outside group rent the YMCA’s facilities for SCUBA. As mentioned in section ###, this can jeopardize the YMCA’s tax-exempt property status.

9. Miscellaneous Costs –

• Advertising • Equipment replacement and maintenance • Hand out materials • Visual aids • Safety equipment (first aid, Oxygen, soft-shot weights) • Mailings • Profits

Once you have listed the cost for each of the items above, analyze example course groupings of students and locate the break-even point. For example, you may find that with 6 students all costs are met and with 10 students there will be an excess. Your agreement with the facility will determine how the excess or loss will be shared. You must charge the students at a rate that will provide enough revenue to meet expectations for the size course you intend to market and remain competitive. If you feel you will have less than 6 students in your courses, the charges will need to be more to meet the costs than if you expect to average 10 students.

Tips on Selecting a Dive Shop Establishing a solid relationship with a local dive shop or diving facility is important to YMCAs offering SCUBA training. Many YMCAs utilize local dive shops to handle rental equipment for the pool and open water dives, and getting air for SCUBA tanks. Students are often required to purchase small amounts of personal equipment needed for training. When determining a dive shop to become a “preferred vendor” with a local YMCA, there are several areas to consider. To determine a proper business with which to do business:

1. Management - professional 2. Reputation 3. Cleanliness 4. Staff - professional 5. Mission 6. Competitiveness 7. Air quality 8. Equipment care and maintenance 9. Insurance Appendix A

INSTRUCTOR CROSSOVER

TRAINING OBJECTIVE The objective of this program is to crossover qualified instructors from other SCUBA training agencies to the YMCA SCUBA Program. A portion of this program is dedicated to giving the candidates an appreciation of the philosophies of YMCA of the USA, as well as the YMCA SCUBA Program. The Instructor Trainer, through testing and evaluation, will insure that the candidate has the qualities that will serve credit to our program.

PREREQUISITES 1. 18 years of age or older. 2. Medical exam with physician's approval. The medical exam must be for SCUBA diving and completed less than one year prior to the beginning of the Crossover Institute. 3. Statement of Understanding/Waiver & Release completed and signed. 4. Hold a YMCA SLAM rating or nationally recognized dive rescue certification and complete the YMCA SLAM Rescue Diver Crossover. This crossover training may be completed any time prior to or during the Instructor Crossover Institute. 5. Active teaching status, Instructor with a recognized SCUBA certification agency with no verified quality assurance complaints. 6. Have logged a minimum of 100 SCUBA dives. An up-to-date log book must be presented by the candidate. 7. Hold current certification in each of the following: a. First Aid (NSC, ARC, AHA, ASHI or equivalent). b. CPR (NSC, AHA, ARC, ASHI or equivalent). c. Oxygen Provider (DAN or equivalent). 8. To be considered for any YMCA SCUBA Program Leadership certification, the candidate/student must not have any standards violations or have been dismissed from the YMCA SCUBA Program or any other SCUBA certification agency.

SANCTION 1. YMCA SCUBA Instructor Trainers may conduct the Crossover Institute that can certify YMCA Silver SCUBA Instructors. An Instructor Trainer can host up to 6 Crossover Candidates alone but it is suggested that additional staff be involved. 2. Sanction must be obtained from the Field Coordinator for the Field where the Institute will be held. 3. Sanction for international Instructor Institutes may be obtained through the YMCA SCUBA Program Director. 4. Institutes must be sanctioned at least 90 days prior to the first session to allow for sufficient advertising and notification of those qualified. Field Coordinators will attempt to plan institutes to cover their field at least a year in advance. 5. To be considered for any YMCA SCUBA Program Leadership certification, the candidate/student must not have any standards violations or have been dismissed from the YMCA SCUBA Program or any other SCUBA certification agency

EQUIPMENT Each candidate must have a Minimum SCUBA Leader System.

MATERIALS 1. Crossover Candidates are to purchase an Instructor Crossover Kit from the YMCA SCUBA Program office that contains manuals and materials for the institute (see below). 2. The Instructor Trainer can locate all forms and materials for the institute in the Instructor Trainer Manual. 3. Candidates must have current manuals with all the latest revisions as follows: a. YMCA SCUBA Program YMCA SCUBA Standards and Procedures Manual. b. YMCA Open Water Diver Instructor Manual. c. YMCA SLAM Rescue Diver Manual. d. YMCA SCUBA Leadership Preparation Manual. e. YMCA Sport Diving Tables.

CERTIFICATION 1. Upon successful completion of all requirements for the Crossover institute the candidate is issued YMCA Silver SCUBA Instructor certification. 2. To be an “active” instructor proof of $1,000,000 liability insurance must be also provided.

RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS Renewal requirements are the same as for Silver Instructor.

CLASSROOM TRAINING The following lectures are presented by staff at the institute: 1. Orientation to YMCA of the USA & YMCA Principles 2. YMCA SCUBA Program Resources: a. YMCA SCUBA Standards and Procedures review b. Open Water Instructor Manual. c. Trailside Guide Scuba text or Graver Scuba Diving manual. d. SLAM Manual. e. YMCA Sport Diving Tables. f. Student Folder and record requirements. g. Promotional materials. h. Certification cards. 3. Diving knowledge review (Physics, Physiology, Medical, Dive Tables, Environment) 4. YMCA SCUBA Administration and Certification. 5. Dynamic Classroom Presentations 6. Dynamic Pool Presentations 7. Managing Open Water Training Dives. 8. Teaching Junior Divers, Older Adults and the Disabled. 9. How to Train Divemasters and Assistant Instructors. 10. Course Organization and Promotion. a. Marketing the YMCA SCUBA Program. b. Business and Financial Aspects of SCUBA Instruction. 11. Liability, Risk Management and Insurance.

CANDIDATE LECTURES The following presentations are made by each candidate during the institute. Details of grading of these lectures is contained in the Instructor Trainer Manual.

1. One 15 to 30-minute classroom lecture topic complete with visual aids (pre-assigned). 2. One 15 to 30-minute confined water presentation.

POOL OR CONFINED WATER TESTING The following skills and evaluations are to be completed:

Skill 1: Swimming/Skin Diving Proficiency Task 1: Swim 400 yards without use of equipment. (Swim goggles are allowed.) Candidate should be advised to use a variety of strokes, and swim no more than 50 yards using the elementary back stroke. Task 2: After the 400-yard swim, the candidate must tread water/survival float for 10 minutes without swimming aids. Task 3: Immediately after completing the tread/float, the candidate will don mask, snorkel and fins, (candidate may be allowed to sit on pool deck to don equipment) then swim 200 yards using mask, snorkel and fins. During the course of the Skin portion of this skill, both head-first and feet-first surface dives and at least three different fin kicks must be demonstrated.

Rationale: A candidate for leadership position in skin and SCUBA training should have demonstrated greater aquatic skill than required for certification as a SCUBA diver.

Skill 2: Skin Diving Proficiency Task: Place mask, snorkel and fins at the bottom of the pool. (A weight or pool brick may be used to keep equipment in place.) The candidate executes a giant stride entry from a position above gear and swims on surface to a position 40 feet from the skin gear. Within 30 seconds, the candidate is to execute a surface dive, then swim 40 feet underwater and recover mask, snorkel and fins. Upon reaching the surface, the mask must be clear, snorkel breathable and the fins worn.

Rationale: A careless skin diver could lose their mask and snorkel overboard or have it washed off their forehead and have to dive to recover them in order to begin/continue snorkeling. Also, this level of aquatic competency is desirable for certification as a YMCA SCUBA instructor. This skill is increased over Phase II by requiring the fins be donned with the mask and snorkel.

Skill 3: Surface Entry and Don, Ditch and Recovery, Lateral Swimming Ascent and Timed Water Treading Exercise Task 1: Candidate enters pool from edge carrying all equipment. Weight belt must also be carried and not worn across the chest or attached to another piece of equipment. Don all equipment. Adjust buoyancy and swim 50 yards underwater. Task 2: Upon return to the deep end, ditch SCUBA equipment, (weight belt may be retained or left on the bottom), and execute a lateral swimming ascent. At the Surface, within 30 seconds, execute surface dive and recover and don all equipment. Task 3: Remove all air from the BC and execute a vertical ascent and tread water for five minutes. Candidate must retain weight belt, have no air in BC and not use snorkel or regulator. After five minutes, orally inflate BC sufficiently for positive buoyancy, surface doff equipment and execute a deep water exit. (Remove SCUBA, exit, then lift out SCUBA.)

Rationale: This exercise is designed to reinforce the need for a SCUBA diver to be totally familiar with their equipment, its fit and function and to be able to place into operation their equipment while visually impaired. During the 5 minute water treading exercise, the candidate retains the weight belt to gain an appreciation for the difficulty in treading water without a functional BC and with weights. This exercise should reinforce the necessity to achieving positive buoyancy by releasing the weight belt and/or inflating the BC of any struggling surface victim. This exercise also shows that proper buoyancy control is essential to safe diving and protection of the environment.

Skill 4: , Equipment Exchange, and Buoyancy Control Task 1: Two candidates execute giant stride entries from the edge of the pool, and perform normal descent to the bottom. After both have settled to the bottom, divers exchange hand signals with one diver indicating out of air. Candidates begin to buddy breath and swim 50 yards underwater sharing air from a single second stage. Task 2: At the end of 50 yards, while continuing to buddy breathe, candidates exchange SCUBA units. After the exchange is made, candidates reverse roles and buddy breathe for an additional 50 yards. Candidates again swap gear while buddy breathing. Task 3: Returning to their own SCUBA unit and using BC and breath control, candidates assume a position mid-water for three minutes. Minimum motion should be used to maintain orientation and position in the water. After three minutes, candidates should make a normal vertical ascent and exit the pool with fins in hand and mask in place.

Rationale: This exercise is designed to reinforce the need for a SCUBA diver to be totally familiar with their equipment, its fit and function, and be able to place into operation their equipment while visually impaired. Prospective leadership or crossover candidates must be able to be in complete control while sharing air from a single regulator and single regulator 2nd stage. Even with the in SCUBA equipment presently available and emphasis from all certifying agencies, it is still not unusual to see divers without redundant air sources, e.g. octopus or pony system, so buddy breathing skills are necessary. The extended swimming length would not be unreasonable to simulate an ascent from depth or exit from a wreck or cave penetration even given the unlikelihood of redundant air source failures.

Skill 5: Diver Emergency I - Rescue and Evacuation of a Disabled Diver from the Bottom of Pool Task 1: Candidate must recover a disabled diver from the bottom of the pool. The victim is unresponsive and unmoving. Candidate must execute a proper SLAM Rescue recovery lift from the bottom of the pool as illustrated in the SLAM Manual. Once on the surface, the candidate must establish positive buoyancy for victim and himself and initiate rescue breathing with two breaths. (The candidate is to simulate rescue breathing by making chin-to-chin contact while holding victim’s nose.) Task 2: The victim must be towed 25 yards while rescue breathing is maintained (one breath every five seconds). Gear is to be stripped while towing as rescue breathing is maintained. After 25 yards, at the edge of pool, candidate will finish stripping gear from victim and himself while maintaining rescue breathing and then demonstrate how victim is removed from the pool to the deck for CPR if needed. (To avoid possible injury the victim may exit pool on his own).

Rationale: Leadership candidates must be competent to perform the prescribed tasks as a reasonably prudent and proficient SCUBA Instructor. These rescue tasks allow the candidate to clearly demonstrate his/her proficiency in equipment, buoyancy control, and rescue skills. This skill is the same that is to be taught to and performed by students in entry level SCUBA class. Candidates have also demonstrated this skill during SLAM Rescue Diver or SLAM Rescue Diver Crossover.

Skill 6: Diver Emergency II - Stabilize and Rescue an Active SCUBA Diver on the Surface Task: The candidate should approach the active victim on the surface using a heads-up swim wearing full SCUBA equipment and maintain a safe distance while encouraging self rescue. (The victim will not respond, have mask on forehead, regulator out of mouth, but will use arms to struggle with elbows in the water and have no air in the BC.) The candidate should make a submerged approach and remove victim’s weights and/or inflate the BC to achieve positive buoyancy (target of opportunity). Control may then be established using victim’s and rescuer’s gear. The candidate will communicate with the victim and the exercise ends when the candidate has the victim under control.

Rationale: Many SCUBA diving accidents begin with a distressed diver at the surface. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to control the situation, stabilize a distressed diver, and preclude the progression of the incident into a more serious accident. Candidate must use good diving skills and show equipment familiarity and dexterity to perform task. Again, this skill is demonstrated by candidates during SLAM Rescue Diver or SLAM Rescue Diver Crossover and appears as a skill in entry level SCUBA class.

OPEN WATER TRAINING No open water training is required.

EXAMINATION AND TESTING 1. Prior to the institute, the Candidate is to complete the Crossover Pre-Exam contained in the Instructor Crossover Kit. 2. During the institute, the Crossover Written Exam is to be completed. 3. Both exams must be passed with a minimum score of 80%, counseled to 100%. 4. Full details of Examination and Testing are contained in the YMCA SCUBA Instructor Trainer Manual.

QUALIFICATIONS Instructor certification in the YMCA SCUBA Program permits an individual to teach SCUBA students to become safe divers. The instructor must always promote safe diving and uphold the standards of the YMCA SCUBA Program. Upon successful completion of training requirements and obtaining insurance, YMCA SCUBA Instructors may train and certify divers from entry level through Gold Master diver, Divemaster and Assistant Instructor. A YMCA Instructor may train and certify divers in SLAM Rescue, Boat Diving, , and Underwater Navigation. A YMCA SCUBA Instructor may train and certify divers in other specialty and leadership areas after completion of Instructor training requirements for those areas. Appendix B

Sample Brochure/Flier

LEARN TO SCUBA DIVE!

Open Water SCUBA Diver

Learning to SCUBA dive is safe, affordable and fun when you take it at the _____ YMCA. Open Water SCUBA Diver is the entry-level certification course that allows you to become a certified SCUBA diver. In order to earn a SCUBA certification, you will participate in classroom sessions and practice essential diving skills in a pool. Finally, you will test your knowledge on a written exam and apply your skills during training dives in an open water dive location. Upon completion, you will receive a certification card that identifies you as a diver, allowing you to rent SCUBA equipment, participate in advanced training and explore exotic diving destinations.

Course dates and times: Start Date – Monday January __, 2004 End Date – Sunday February __, 2004 • Pool & Classroom Sessions (4 weeks) Mondays & Wednesdays 6-9 p.m. • Open Water Dives (1 weekend) Saturday & Sunday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Cost: $180* *Student is responsible for purchasing the following: • Graver’s Scuba Diving, 3rd edition and YMCA dive tables $ 26.95 • An underwater timing device (water resistant watch), $35-$200 • Personal set of mask, snorkel and fins, $80-$150 • Pay dive site admission at open water dive site, $10

Course location: • Pool & Classroom Sessions at the _____ YMCA • Open Water Dives at _____

Instructor: John Smith, (555) 222-XXXX Appendix C

Sample YMCA SCUBA Instructor Job Description: YMCA SCUBA Instructor certification permits an individual to teach SCUBA students to become safe divers. The Instructor must always promote safe diving and uphold the standards of the YMCA SCUBA Program. Upon successful completion of training requirements and obtaining insurance, YMCA SCUBA Instructors may train and certify divers from entry level through Gold Master Diver, Divemaster and Assistant Instructor. A YMCA Instructor may train and certify divers in specialty courses including: SLAM Rescue, Boat Diving, Computer Assisted Diving, Night Diving, Underwater Navigation and Aquatic Environmentalist. A YMCA SCUBA Instructor may train and certify divers in other specialty and Leadership areas after completion of Instructor training requirements for those areas.

YMCA SCUBA instructors are held to high ethical guidelines. Caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are a part of instructional values. Theses values should be presented during all events related the YMCA’s SCUBA programs.

Qualifications: To teach SCUBA at the _____ YMCA, the instructor must have the following: 1. Current certification as a YMCA SCUBA instructor (Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Instructor Trainer) 2. An active $1,000,000 Professional Liability Insurance policy for SCUBA instruction. 3. Display values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Appendix D

SAMPLE ANNUAL BUDGET FOR SCUBA INSTRUCTION

INCOME TOTALS

ENTRY LEVEL STUDENTS @ $ __ = $ _____

ADVANCED SCUBA STUDENTS @ $ __ = $ _____

SPECIALTY STUDENTS @ $ __ = $ _____

PLANNED TOTAL INCOME $ _____

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ANNUAL EXPENSES BUDGET

ADVERTISING $ _____

LIABILITY INSURANCE $ _____

CERTIFICATION RENEWAL $_____

OTHER EXPENSES (TRAVEL-TELEPHONE-MEETINGS) $_____

TOTAL ANNUAL EXPENSES $ _____

PER COURSE EXPENSES (Fixed)

CLASSROOM/POOL FACILITY $_____

OTHER EXPENSES $_____

__ EXPECTED COURSES x TOTAL $ _____ = $ _____

PER STUDENT EXPENSES (Variable)

EQUIPMENT RENTAL $ _____

AIR REFILLS AND SERVICES $_____

TEXT BOOK $_____

HANDOUT MATERIALS $_____

CERTIFICATION CARD $_____

OPEN WATER SITE AND EQUIPMENT COSTS $_____

__ EXPECTED STUDENTS x TOTAL $ _____ = $ _____

PLANNED TOTAL EXPENSES $ _____

EXCESS OR (LOSS) $ _____ Appendix E

SAMPLE FRONT DESK INFORMATION BROCHURE

Information similar to this could be provided to the persons working at the front desk at the YMCA so details provided to prospective SCUBA students is complete and accurate. This is often a missing link in the advertising material presented through various media. After presenting the initial package, you should check on occasion to be sure the information is still present and accurate and that it is being used. A miss- informed front desk person can turn away many SCUBA students. Each of the areas presented could be a separate page.

YMCA SCUBA CLASS INFORMATION

CERTIFICATION At the completion of this course students will be certified as YMCA Open Water Divers. The YMCA is the oldest National SCUBA certification agency in the United States. The YMCA certification card is well respected and is accepted internationally. The World Underwater Federation certification (CMAS) can also be obtained through this program. Following completion of all classroom, pool, and open water dives, the student will receive a certification card, a wall certificate and a SCUBA Program patch with a Open Water (or Bronze Open Water) chevron.

COURSE PREREQUISITES Swimming ability. Students are required to have a basic swimming ability and to pass an entry level swim test during the first class. The swim test consists of: 1. 200 yard surface swim - any stroke and there is no time requirement. 2. 25 foot underwater swim - this equals the width of our YMCA pool. 3. 10 minute float or tread water. Relaxation and comfort in the water is more important than correct swim strokes.

Age requirements. Students must be at least 12 years old by the beginning of the class. Students between the ages of 12 and 15 receive a junior certification and must have their parents present during the class. Students between 15 and 18 must have their parents permission to take the program.

Medical Questionnaire. A medical questionnaire must be completed at the first session and a physicians approval may be required if there are medical problems that relate to diving.

CLASS SCHEDULE Class will meet every night for eight weeks. Each class will be four hours long and consist of two hours in the classroom and two hours in the pool. A complete schedule of classes is in the back of this folder. The total course classroom and pool time is 32 hours. This is longer than courses offered by many other agencies. "More education leads to safer divers"

EQUIPMENT All equipment is furnished for the eight pool sessions. Students need to furnish their own mask, fins and snorkel by the open water dives. (note: this could be by the first night, the third night etc.) Students may furnish their own SCUBA equipment for the open water dives or it can be rented from .

OPEN WATER DIVES At the end of the classroom and pool sessions, the students will be ready to complete the training for certification with the required open water dives. These include one skin dive (with mask, fins and snorkel) and four SCUBA dives. This can be accomplished on any of our dive trips, on local outings on weekends, during a vacation to a resort, etc. There will be a separate charge for open water instruction and equipment rental.

MISSED SESSIONS If a student misses a session, he or she may complete a make-up session on arrangement with the instructor. If several sessions are missed, the student may make up those at the next class. There will be no additional charge for make up sessions.

COSTS The total cost of this diving class is as follows:

Classroom and pool training members $

non-members $

Book and materials $

Open Water dive instruction $

Open Water equipment rental $

TOTAL member cost $

TOTAL non-member cost $

Note: These totals do not include the purchase of personal equipment that includes mask, fins and snorkel and other items the student may wish to purchase.

Note to the instructor: It would be ideal to have the information presented above in a small brochure that is available to the prospective students. Small tri-fold flyers are often present in a display at most YMCA's. Yours could be among them.