BSA Scuba Merit Badge

The new Scuba Merit Badge for the Boy Scouts was approved in Fall 2009

Scuba Merit Badge Requirements are below

What We Offer

The NAUI Scuba Diver program, an internationally recognized beginner level certification program, specifically tailored to Boy Scout groups working towards the Scuba Merit Badge.

50% off our regular program tuition, with use of all snorkel and scuba gear included.

The option of adding the O2 administration and First Aid/CPR classes that meet further requirements (1a & 1b) for the Merit Badge.

We will come to you for the classroom sessions! This makes it easy to fit into regular meetings that you might have scheduled. Pool and ocean sessions require the group to meet at our facility.

Years of experience working with youth in snorkel and Scuba programs. We have worked with hundreds of youth over the years, helping them develop into safe, responsible and confident divers.

What is involved: The NAUI Scuba Diver course involves academic home study and class review, pool training for skills and practice, and at least 5 open water dives. The CPR/First Aid and Oxygen Administration programs involve academic home study followed by an evening of skills practice for each class.

Costs

Tuition Regular BSA Program

Scuba Diver Class $299 $149.50

CPR/First Aid Class $ 65 $ 32.50

Oxygen Administration Class $ 75 $ 37.50

Study materials

Scuba Diver Study Materials $ 84 $60

CPR/First Aid/O2 Study Materials $29 $21

Equipment NONE - Use of equipment is included in tuition.

Sample class outline:

Class session 1: Intro to Class & Diving Equipment

Pool session 1:

Class session 2: Diving Science

Pool session 2:

Class session 3: Decompression theory & Dive Tables

Pool session 3:

Class session 4: Dive Planning & Problem Management

Open Water Session 1: Dives 1, 2 & 3 + Academic Review: Diving Environment

Open Water Session 2: Dives 4 & 5 + Academic Review: Diving Activities

As needed for individual requirements for the Scuba Merit Badge

Class session: O2 administration

Class session: CPR/First Aid

Equipment requirements: None! We will include the usage of ALL the necessary equipment in the class tuition. All that BSA participants need to provide is a swimsuit and towel for water sessions.

Scuba merit badge requirements:

1. Do the following:

a. Show that you know first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while scuba diving, including hypothermia, hyperventilation, squeezes, fatigue, overexertion, injuries by aquatic life, motion sickness, nitrogen narcosis, and decompression illness.

b. Identify the conditions that must exist before performing CPR on a person, and explain how to recognize such conditions. Demonstrate the proper technique for performing CPR using a training device approved by your counselor.

2. Before completing requirements 3 through 6, earn the Swimming merit badge.

3. Discuss the Scuba Diver's Code with your merit badge counselor, and explain the importance of each guideline to a scuba diver's safety.

4. Explain what an ecosystem is, and describe four aquatic ecosystems a diver might experience.

5. Earn an Open Water Diver Certification from an RSTC member organization.

6. Find out about three career opportunities in the scuba industry. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.

All the requirements, Other than items #2 and #5 above, can be found in the BSA Scuba Diving merit badge booklet, available from local BSA Council stores. This booklet will be available beginning in November 2009.

Seattle Scuba Schools can help your scout group fulfill all the requirements for the new Scuba Merit Badge anywhere in the Puget Sound area. Please contact us, we would be happy to come give a presentation at your next troop meeting!