Overhead training for ice dives

[MikeP]

I'm not sure if this belongs in this forum but couldn't see where it would fit better.

2 out of our team of four currently do not have any form of overhead training, so we haven't allowed them to dive with us at the quarry recently. Our team belief is no overhead training no ice dives.

I was going through some online photos from April dives at the quarry when I came across pics of local GUE/DIR divers doing overhead ice dives with non-overhead trained divers.

So my question is,
Isn't formal training the acceptable training method or is this something that can be effectively taught from buddy to buddy. Not looking at changing my beliefs here, just somewhat puzzled at the apparant lack of diligence.

Mike

[Tom Falardeau]

Mike, this is one of those issues where you go with your gut instinct. Your gut is telling you that overhead trained divers taking non-overhead trained buddies into such situations is not a good idea. And your gut instinct is right. Doesn't really matter what agency trained them or what philosophy they espouse. This kind of thing, unfortunately, happens all to often, no matter what alphabet soup of agency initials a diver has in his c-card collection.

Now if said experienced divers were publicly stating one thing (don't do it) and doing another (taking non-overhead trained bf, gf or buddy into overhead), then you can and should call them on it, publicly. Especially if such divers tend to be vocal about the diving habits of others. Otherwise, go with your own assessment of the situation, avoid divers who practice unsafe methods and do your own thing. Take note of who trained these people and let it be a sign to avoid said trainer(s).

[owlbill]

I for one still think it is less of an "overhead" issue, (with regard to Morrison Quarry anyway) and more of an ice cold water issue. The cold water seems to be more of a problem "cause" than other things here. I do not agree with taking non certed divers into overhead at all, but I think if the water was 70 deg F it would be less hazardous for sure. Well, I think so anyway.

[JimC]

I have one word for the GUE people doing this; Hypocritical.

I have also questioned some of them about the practice but received the typical sort of blow off replies. But at the end of the day, its there call.