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Press Center About DAN About SMP |
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Divers Alert Network (DAN) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit medical and research organization dedicated to the safety and health of recreational scuba divers. Founded in 1980 in association with Duke University Medical Center, DAN underwrites a wide range of research, education and training programs that promote safe diving. DAN has been a leader in the dive industry since its inception. We created the first 24-Hour Diving Emergency Hotline for dive accidents and the facilitation of emergency assistance and evacuation. It was quickly followed by a separate non-emergency information line to accommodate the high level of inquiries about diving and medicine. More than 25 years later, DAN remains the only organization providing these services. DAN was also the first to initiate insurance for the specialized recompression or other medical or evacuation services required in the event of a dive accident. DAN has trained medical staff for on call assistance in the event of a dive emergency, initiated the use of emergency oxygen first aid programs and is the largest distributor of emergency oxygen equipment for the treatment of dive injuries. DAN is supported by the membership dues and donations of more than 220,000 fellow divers. Another 60,000 international divers support the efforts of DAN Europe, DAN Japan, DAN Southeast Asia Pacific and DAN Southern Africa. In return, members receive a number of important benefits, including $100,000 of emergency medical evacuation assistance, DAN educational publications, a subscription to Alert Diver magazine and access to diving's first and foremost dive accident insurance coverage. DAN remains focused on service to the community of recreational divers. We exist to provide expert information and advice for the benefit of the diving public. DAN's historical and primary function is to provide emergency medical advice and assistance for underwater diving injuries, to work to prevent injuries and to promote diving safety. DAN promotes and supports underwater diving research and education for all levels of diving and medical professionals, particularly as it relates to the improvement of diving safety, medical treatment and first aid. Finally, DAN strives to provide the most accurate, up-to-date and unbiased information on issues of common concern to the diving public. DAN was created by divers for divers; because of this, DAN is your diving association, and DAN Is Your Buddy. |
