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PADI Rescue Diver Certification

The PADI Rescue Diver course is a pivotal step in expanding a diver’s knowledge and experience. Rescue Divers learn to look beyond themselves to consider the safety and well-being of other divers. This is why the PADI Rescue Diver certification is a prerequisite for all PADI leadership-level training (PADI Divemaster, Assistant Instructor, and Open Water Scuba Instructor).

Rescue Diver training expands the basic problem prevention and accident management skills student divers learn beginning with the PADI Open Water Diver course. At the Rescue Diver level, students are ready to learn to manage more complex dive emergencies and to apply direct intervention techniques to assist others in an emergency.

By its nature, the course is demanding, though realistic in its conduct, content and approach. Although the nature and context in which rescue training may be used is serious, the course should be an enjoyable challenge that builds diver confidence. T

What do I need to start?

You can enroll in the Rescue Diver Course as a certified Open Water Diver (or have a qualifying certification from another training organization) and participate in the Rescue Diver knowledge development and rescue training sessions, in confined water only, while working on your Advanced Open Water Diver certification.
To participate in the rescue training sessions in open water, and to participate in the open water rescue scenarios, you must be certified as a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or have a qualifying certification from another training organization.
Minimum age: 15 years old (12 for PADI Junior Rescue Diver)
Successful completion of a sanctioned CPR program within the past 24 months. The Emergency First Response Primary Care (CPR) and Secondary Care (First Aid) courses meet these requirements.

What will I do?

Rescue Diver training will prepare you to prevent problems and, if necessary, manage dive emergencies. During the five open water sessions, you'll cover:

Self-rescue and diver stress
AED and emergency oxygen delivery systems
dive first aid
swimming and non-swimming rescue techniques
emergency management and equipment
panicked diver response
underwater problems
missing diver procedures
surfacing the unconscious diver
in-water rescue breathing protocols
egress (exits)
first aid procedures for pressure related accidents
dive accident scenarios

How long will it take?

Recommended Course Hours: 25
Minimum Open Water Training: five sessions over two days

Training Sessions

Dives will take place in Connecticut or Rhode Island. You will also need to fill out and sign the required forms prior to training.

What will I need?

Required course materials are listed below and are included in the cost of the course.

Rescue Diver Crew-Pak
PADI Rescue Diver Video on DVD