A reel is an important tool in diving, particularly for activities such as cave diving, wreck diving, or technical diving. Here are the key reasons why a reel is crucial in these diving scenarios:
Navigation: A reel is primarily used for navigation purposes. In environments with limited visibility or complex layouts, such as caves or wrecks, divers need to lay a guideline or reference line to find their way in and out safely. The reel allows divers to deploy and reel in the line, ensuring they can navigate back to the entry point without getting disoriented or lost.
Safety and Emergency Procedures: In emergencies, a reel can be vital for establishing a line to the surface or a safe exit point. In overhead environments like caves, a reel with a continuous guideline serves as a lifeline for divers to follow in case of an emergency, providing a direct route to safety.
Distance Measurement and Exploration: A reel with a marked line can be used to measure distances during exploration dives. By paying out line and counting the marked increments, divers can estimate distances covered, which is useful for mapping and documenting dive sites.
Line Management: A reel helps manage the guideline or reference line during the dive. It prevents entanglement or tangling of the line by keeping it neatly stowed and deployed as needed. Proper line management contributes to a safer and more efficient dive.
Team Communication: In situations where divers need to communicate with their buddy or team members, a reel can be used as a signaling tool. By tugging on the line, divers can communicate simple messages or indicate their presence or location to others in the team.
Equipment Recovery: A reel can also be used for equipment recovery in situations where divers need to retrieve or secure items that may have become detached or lost during the dive. The line on the reel can be used to attach and lift the equipment safely to the surface.
It's important to note that proper training and experience are necessary to effectively and safely use a reel. Divers should undergo specific training in line laying, reel management, and reel-assisted navigation techniques before incorporating a reel into their diving activities.
