Diver Stress and Rescue

Diver stress is a major cause of diving accidents, but it can easily be prevented and resolved. Join the SSI Diver Stress and Rescue Specialty program and learn how to help yourself and other divers stay safe.

Earn this essential specialty certification today!

What you can expect to learn

The SSI Diver Stress and Rescue specialty program teaches you the skills you need to protect yourself and other divers.

You will learn how to identify stress, how to prevent accidents and be taught practical techniques to conduct rescues and provide emergency care. With a combination of pool and open water practice sessions, you will become well prepared and confident at handling emergency and rescue situations.

Upon completion, you will earn the SSI Diver Stress and Rescue Specialty certification.

The SSI Diver Stress and Rescue Course consists of three main phases:

  • Six Academic Sessions (Independent study or in a classroom)
  • Three Pool / Confined Water Sessions
  • Three Open Water Dives- Where its time to use the knowledge and skills you acquired, in the open ocean to complete the SSI Diver Stress and Rescue Course.

Maximum Training Depth : 30 meters / 100 feet

Course equipment requirements

During all in-water scuba training, each student must be equipped with a properly fitted Total Diving System:
• Mask
• Snorkel
• Fins
• Buoyancy compensator with power inflator
• Weight System
• Delivery System with cylinder, primary regulator and alternate air source
• Information System with submersible pressure gauge, depth gauge, and timing device (a dive computer is recommended)
• Exposure suit appropriate for the environment
• Logbook

*Equipment will be provided by your Dive Centre. We recommend that you should get your own gear once you become a certified diver.

Course prerequisites

Minimum age:

  • 12 years old.
  • Be physically capable of completing the required skills.
  • Have proof of current First Aid and CPR training within two (2) years prior to issuing a certification card.

Have the following SSI certifications or equivalent from a recognized training agency:

  • Referral Diver

Get started

  • Complete all academic sessions and assessments outlined in the instructor manual for Diver Stress & Rescue.
  • Complete the program’s final exam.
  • Complete at least three (3) pool/confined water sessions as outlined in the instructor manual for Diver Stress & Rescue.
  • Complete at least three (3) open water training dives as outlined in the instructor manual for Diver Stress & Rescue.

What’s included?

Training Material and Certification Cost

How long will this take?

Recommended hours for completion: 10-15. The number of classes, hours and sessions per day are set by the individual instructor, based on student needs, student ability and water conditions.

Take the Next Step

Want to know more?

Ask more questions or schedule any of these courses Email Us.