Safety First, Lobsters Second
Mini-Lobster Season Needs Supersize Safety

Mini-lobster season is a great time to be in the Florida Keys. Each July, divers from all over the U.S. travel to the region to take part in the two-day lobster hunt that precedes the regular August season.

Unfortunately, one of the traditions of the lobster hunt has become diver injuries and fatalities. Between 2005-2008, fourteen 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.

Many divers don’t realize how much more strenuous a hunt dive is compared to a regular recreational dive. There’s a lot more swimming involved, divers are doing frequent ascents and repetitive dives, and even the sheer adrenaline can be a significant physiological factor.

The excitement of the hunt can be a distraction, but it’s important to remember that the hunt dives require as much preparation and attention as any other dive.

A few other safety tips from DAN:

1. Remember that an underwater hunt strains your body much more than a typical recreational dive.
2. If you do not exercise vigorously and frequently on land, do not dive if you are not fit for it. Do not hunt underwater.
3. Do not lobster hunt on your first dive. If you did not have a chance to make some dives before the mini-season, remember that full lobster season starts in August and lasts through March. Use the preseason time to refresh your skills and improve your fitness. By doing this, you will be ready for many safe lobster hunts during the regular season.
4. Lobster hunting is a serious dive operation, even at a depth of 10 ft (3m). Ensure that the diver in you maintains control over the hunter in you.
5. Remember, you caught nothing if you did not bring it to the surface and cook it.

For a more in-depth look at dive safety during the mini-lobster season, visit alertdiver.com.