to the mouth and bite down on the rubber projections with teeth. The wide flange should fit between the teeth and lips. It is common for the snorkel, stand in shallow water, take a deep breath and submerge until the snorkel is completely filled. Straighten out until the back of the head is clear of the water but the face is still submerged. Next, make a quick hard blow to clear the water from the tube. Now you should have a clear snorkel (Counsilman and Drinkwater 33). The fins are what make you move through the water in a faster and less rigorous fashion. Walking in fins on land should not be done because they are extremely awkward and could cause a fall. In shallow water, it is easier to walk backwards if you move slowly and slide the feet along the bottom. When the diver is Korell 5 equipped with fins, the hands are rarely used and held at the sides to help keep the body straight. When the fins are used, the most common kick is the flutter kick and is used on the surface and underwater. The legs are to stay relaxed. To get the full effect of the fins and to avoid necessary fatigue, kick at a slightly slower pace than usual. The toes should stay pointed, and the fins should be completely submerged (Counsilman and Drinkwater 33-34). When diving, the "buddy system" should always be used, and all equipment should be placed in reach from the dive site. A buddy is there to help you check your gear and, when underwater, to help you in case of an emergency. After you are in the water, put on the fins, mask, and snorkel, and, carrying a weight belt, walk slowly backward to the middle of a shallow area. Sit on the bottom with the weight belt across your thighs. When inhaling, the body should make a slow rise. If it does not rise, then the weight should be decreased. This makes the body neutrally buoyant. Always make sure the mouthpiece and mask are clear. Free ascent should also be learned in case of emergency and the diver must ascend without...
