H.O.P.E.

4
WEEK 5
 LEARNING GOALS
⮚Learn the importance and benefits of
snorkeling

⮚Distinguish different snorkeling equipment

⮚Discuss the significance of snorkeling

 INTRODUCTION

How beautiful is our ocean environment?

When you go to beach do you try snorkeling?
LESSON PROPER
Snorkeling
Snorkeling provides a perfect way of exploring the underwater
world. It is a popular recreational activity, especially in tropical
locations. Snorkeling allows you to observe underwater life in its
natural setting without expensive and complicated equipment used
in scuba diving.

Both adults and children can engage in this underwater activity as

it doesn’t require as much activity and training as scuba diving
does. As a beginner snorkeler, you may need to know the
difference between snorkeling and scuba diving.
 Snorkeling Versus Scuba Diving
• In scuba diving, the entire body of the swimmer is immersed deep in the
water with the nose and eyes enclosed in a mask. The diver does not
breathe through the nose unless he or she is wearing a mask but inhales
from the diving equipment’s regulator mouthpiece.
• In snorkeling, the head and nose are underwater and the swimmer returns
on the surface regularly by tilting the head back to expel water from the
snorkel tube.
• Scuba divers can stay underwater longer than snorkelers because they
don’t have to hold their breath. Snorkelers hold their breath while
underwater and have to come back to the surface regularly.
• In scuba diving, you need a pressurized gas tank strapped on your back, a
single hose, a diving regulator, mouthpiece, tight-fitting diving suit, and
swim fins. Snorkelers just need a diving mask, an L or J shaped tube with
a mouthpiece and swimming fins attached to the feet.
Snorkeling equipment: What
you need and what you don’t
Snorkeling Equipment

Diving mask / goggles – These are essential, and they’re going to take a bit of getting used
to. Snorkeling / diving masks keep the water out of your eyes and ensure you can see the
wonderful wild life under the waves.

Swim Fins – Fins are useful as they help you conserve energy and swim fast. Fins will also
come in handy if you find yourself swimming against a current. For these reasons, they’re
worth investing in or renting out.

Wet suit / dive skin – Ideal for warmth or protection, especially in cooler waters. These
come in various sizes (shortie or full length).

Booties – These are great for protecting your feet during underwater expeditions like scuba
diving and snorkeling.
Snorkeling Equipment

Flotation device – A flotation device like an inflatable snorkeling vest is

recommended for added safety. Ensure you have one that inflates or deflates easily.

Snorkel Keeper – The snorkel keep fastens the diving mask to the snorkel and
keeps the two safely connected.

Snorkel – Shaped breathing tube to ensure you can stay under water long enough to
take in the sights!

Dry Snorkel – Specialized breathing tube that prevents water from getting in. The
sole purpose of a dry snorkel is to prevent water from getting into the snorkel itself. It
is not intended to allow you to breathe underwater like a scuba tank.

Purge valve – The purge valve contained within a snorkel makes it easier for water
that enters the snorkel to drain back out.
Dos and Don’ts for first time
snorkelers
 Dos and Don’ts for first time snorkelers

Don’t touch the coral. Coral is a living organism – don’t stand on

them, and try to look down while you’re trashing about to stay
afloat to ensure you’re not kicking anything you shouldn’t be.
Also, try to avoid standing on any rocks. What you perceive as a
rock, may actually be a vulnerable underwater organism.
Dos and Don’ts for first time snorkelers

Use biodegradable sunscreen – it’s better for the eco system. The
National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science have listed
oxybenzone and octinoxate, two ingredients commonly found in
sunscreen, as harmful to coral reefs. Sun screen chemicals such
as these can contribute to coral bleaching. Other potentially
harmful ingredients to watch out for are PABA, octocrylene,
avobenzone, homosalate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor or
butylparaben (a preservative). In general, steer clear from
sunscreens which contain oils and potentially harmful chemicals.
Dos and Don’ts for first time snorkelers

Don’t interfere with the sea creatures or other marine life as

this could be hazardous. Some species are poisonous, and
some may react defensively causing injury to you, or to
themselves.
Dos and Don’ts for first time snorkelers

Respect other people’s personal space – even underwater. As

excited as you may be, and as much as you might want to reach
out to the person next to you to ensure they see the spectacular
lion fish just sailing by, not everyone appreciates the intrusion.

Don’t feed the fish – they’re quite alright without your help.
Doing so can throw off the natural balance of things. To share is
to care, but interfering can cause problems in the long run.
Dos and Don’ts for first time snorkelers

Practice reef etiquette. Snorkeling is great for acquiring knowledge on

marine life, so take in the sights and sounds. Make mental notes for
later.

Don’t take anything home with you – that goes for starfish, sand
dollars, coral fragment (even if they appear dead), sea urchins or
shells. It is illegal in some places to acquire conch or lobster while
diving. Penalties are stiff for people caught doing so, so avoid this at
all costs.
Safety precautions for
snorkeling
 Safety precautions for snorkeling

Pay attention – Photos and videos are all well and good, but try
to avoid doing this during safety instruction sessions. It is
important to create memories but it is more critical to be safe.

Use safety equipment – It is highly recommended that snorkelers

use floatation devices. Inflatable vests for example, aren’t only
for people who don’t know how to swim – they can save your life
if you get tired. Some vests come with features that allow them to
be inflated by mouth for added buoyancy. There is also a release
valve which allows snorkelers to dive to the bottom to get a
closer look at fish and other marine life.
 Safety precautions for snorkeling
Never snorkel alone – Having a partner is recommended for beginners,
and even advanced snorkelers. A snorkeling buddy enriches the
experience – they’re also right next to you if something goes wrong.

Look but don’t touch – Think of your experience as a virtual tour. Don’t
touch the marine life, and definitely don’t try to take anything home with
you.

No sinking, swimming only – Basic but formal swimming lessons may

be necessary to make the most of your snorkeling experience.
Floatation devices like inflatable vests are recommended. Water
noodles can also be a fun floatation device for snorkeling in an informal
setting.
 Safety precautions for snorkeling

Know your equipment – Practice in a swimming pool if

necessary, as practicing beforehand with your equipment helps
build up your confidence. If you don’t have access to a pool,
somewhere shallow with calm water is good for practice as well.

Weather conditions matter – Check the weather forecast before

heading out. Optimal conditions for snorkeling are calm, smooth
seas. Keep in mind that as the hours go by, weather patterns
may change. Even with sunny predictions, it’s important to check
for yourself whether waters are conducive for snorkeling. If you
take a break for lunch, ensure that waters are conducive before
resuming your snorkeling session.
 Safety precautions for snorkeling
Know your location – Learn as much as you can about your snorkeling
destination. During your snorkeling tour be sure to come up for air
frequency to see what’s happening around you. This can also help you
keep track of your location as tides can pull you out to sea. Watch your
surroundings and ensure there’s not a lot of wave action. Follow all safety
regulations, and be vigilant.

Know your limits – Once you get out into the ocean, remember; it’s
important not to over extend yourself. It’s a new experience; take it one step
at a time. Some first-timers have reported not finishing the snorkeling
course as a result of being too overwhelmed. If you are too tired to finish, or
just don’t feel comfortable, indicate that to your tour guide. If you’re on a
private trip with a snorkeling buddy and feel tired, let them know and make
your way back to the boat together.
 Safety precautions for snorkeling

Undersea dangers – The scariest things to look out for include

sharks of barracudas, but depending on the location you choose,
it is unlikely you will encounter any of these. Find out more about
the commonly spotted wildlife before choosing a location. Other
potential dangers include lion fish, an invasive predatory species
form the Indo-pacific, and jellyfish. Lion fish are usually harmless
and sting only in defensive situations. They can appear scary to
first timers, and they have venomous spines which can be
dangerous if you get too close. Jellyfish on the other hand travel
frequently in schools. Stings can cause small itchy welts. Large
jellyfish tend to be more dangerous but are not commonly
spotted on snorkeling expeditions..
 VALUES
INTEGRATION
The sons of Israel went
through the midst of the
sea on the dry land, and
the waters were like a wall
to them on their right How strong our faith in God?
hand and on their left. Are we like Israelites that give their trust to
the Lord?
-Exodus 14:22-28
Source: In what ways we lift our problems to the
https://bible.knowing- Lord?
jesus.com/words/Ocean
ASSESSMENT
What are the distinct features of snorkeling vs
scuba diving?

What common injuries we can acquired in

snorkeling? How do we avoid that?
 REFERENCES
• Tolitol et.al.(2016). Health Optimizing Physical
Education 2. Quezon City. Philippines.

• Callo et.al, (2017). Physical Education and Health

Vol.2. Sampaloc Manila, Philippines