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DAN Joins DEMA in Promoting Safety Through PSA and Training Tips
Dan Orr, president and CEO of Divers Alert Network® (DAN®), will join Tom Ingram and Al Hornsby of DEMA in Florida this week in an effort to increase safety practices during the two-day mini-lobster season in the Florida Keys.
Between 2005 and 2008, 14 fatalities were recorded during the mini-lobster season; of those, four occurred just last year. While the exact causes of death are being determined for some, diver error is clearly responsible for others.
“This is a great time of year to be in the Keys, and it’s fantastic the number of divers who turn out for this event,” Orr said. “Unfortunately, in some cases the excitement of the hunt takes precedence over safe diving practices, so we’re trying to remind every diver of the need to be current in their skills and knowledge about dive safety.”
Divers are reminded of these practices in a public service announcement produced as a joint collaboration between DAN and DEMA. In the PSA divers are reminded to ensure their gear is serviced, their skills refreshed and their buddy plan secure.
The PSA will run on major television stations throughout Florida, and corresponding posters have been distributed to more than 400 dive centers throughout the southeastern United States.
“Mini-lobster season, and even the regular season that follows in August, is a time of year many divers look forward to,” Orr said. “We’re hoping to provide a few gentle reminders that will go a long way in keeping divers safe, as well as having fun.”
The 2009 event will take place July 29-30. A press conference on the event will be held in Ft. Lauderdale on June 17.
Visit DAN’s websites for additional information on mini-lobster season or to view the PSA.
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