REQUIREMENTS:
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Before doing other requirements, successfully complete the
BSA swimmer test: Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off, and begin
swimming. Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more of the following strokes:
sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl; then swim 25 yards using an easy, resting
backstroke. The 100 yards must be completed in one swim without stops and must include at
least one sharp turn. After completing the swim, rest by floating. |
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Discuss the importance of using the buddy system at all
times while snorkeling and list duties of a buddy, beginning with equipment checks. |
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Explain the function, fit, and selection of mask, fins, and
snorkel. Discuss the use of inflatable flotation vests and PFDs when snorkeling in open
water. |
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In confined, shallow water (about waist deep), demonstrate
use of mask and snorkel:
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Show how to prevent the mask from fogging and how to
equalize pressure in mask, ears, and sinus cavities. With your head underwater, flood the
mask, observe the effect on your vision, surface, and drain the water from the mask. |
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With your face in the water, breathe through the snorkel.
Then submerge, surface, clear water from the snorkel, and resume free breathing without
removing the snorkel from your mouth. |
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In confined, shallow water, demonstrate the use of swim
fins: Do first using only fins, and then repeat with a mask and snorkel.
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Fit and adjust fins to feet. |
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Walk with fins as if entering from a beach. |
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Swim at the surface (10 yards) and underwater (three yards)
using the flutter kick. |
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Control direction without using hands while swimming with
fins at the surface and underwater. |
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In confined, deep water (six to 12 feet), demonstrate:
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Proper techniques for entering and exiting the water with
snorkeling equipment from a dock or boat. |
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Headfirst and feetfirst surface dives, including proper body
position for safe ascent and descent. |
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Show knowledge of snorkeling signals:
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Demonstrate divers' signs and signals, both audible and
visual, for use at the surface and underwater. |
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Set out a diver down flag and explain its function. |
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In clear, confined water eight to 12 feet deep that has a
firm bottom, while swimming with a buddy, use mask, fins, and snorkel to locate and
recover an object from the bottom. |
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Demonstrate basic survival skills:
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Float facedown for five minutes while breathing through a
snorkel with a minimum of movement. |
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Demonstrate survival floating for five minutes without use
of a snorkel. |
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Using fins, show how to tow an exhausted or unconscious
buddy to safety. |
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Review and explain the eight points of Safe Swim Defense and
BSA Snorkeling Safety. Explain training, preparations, and precautions required for
snorkeling in open water. Explain environmental factors that affect snorkeling and discuss
special precautions needed for oceans, streams, and lakes. |
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Explain pressure, buoyancy, and submerged optics and
acoustics related to snorkel swimming and diving. |
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Discuss the effects of submersion on the body and how to
handle potentially dangerous situations:
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What is hyperventilation and how is it avoided? |
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What are the symptoms and consequences of hypothermia? |
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Why is CPR training recommended for those participating in
swimming and snorkeling activities? |
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Information is available on this
page at the BSA Website. |
