Learn scuba diving safety, first aid, CPR, complete Open Water Diver certification, study aquatic ecosystems, and explore diving careers to earn this merit badge.

Requirements

  1. 1. Safety and Emergency Skills

    Dive Safety Starts Here

    Do all
    Do the following:
    1. a.

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

    2. 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. 2. Water Readiness

    Swimming Before Scuba

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

  3. 3. Diver Responsibility

    The Scuba Diver's Code

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

  4. 4. Certification Journey

    Earning Open Water Certification

    Earn an Open Water Diver Certification from a scuba organization recognized by the Scouting America scuba policy.

  5. 5. Underwater Environments

    Aquatic Ecosystems

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

  6. 6. Scuba Careers

    Careers Below the Surface

    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.