RECREATIONAL · Rescue level

SSI Diver Stress and Rescue

The most challenging yet rewarding course: prevent and manage problems, help other divers.

Often described as the most challenging yet most rewarding course in recreational diving. Through classroom, pool and open-water scenarios you learn to prevent and manage problems underwater, becoming a more self-reliant diver and a huge asset to others. It opens the door to professional training such as Divemaster.

PRICE

295 €

DURATION

2 to 3 days

MIN AGE

15+

PREREQUISITE

Advanced and first aid (included if needed)

What you'll learn

◆Recognise signs of stress in yourself and others before they escalate

◆Rescue techniques for panicked or unresponsive divers, surface and underwater

◆Handle emergencies: tired-diver tow, missing-diver search, in-water rescue breaths

◆Administer oxygen and basic dive first aid

Included

✓Course e-manual and certificate

✓Full dive equipment and dive computer

✓Certification fee

✓First aid included if not already certified

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What to expect

Student practising CPR chest compressions on a training manikin during the React Right first aid course at Barbarian Diving Tenerife

Day 1. React Right First Aid

Before entering the water every Rescue Diver needs to be certified in first aid. On Day 1 you will complete the SSI React Right course, learning CPR, oxygen administration, AED basics and how to respond to dive emergencies on the surface. Valid for 2 years worldwide. Can be taken separately if you already hold a valid first aid certification.

SSI Rescue Diver student practising diver extraction from the water up a ladder during confined water training at Barbarian Diving Tenerife

Day 2. Confined Water & First Rescue Dive

Today you get in the water. In the morning you will practise rescue skills in calm, shallow confined water, tired diver assists, underwater problem solving, and emergency ascents. In the afternoon your first real rescue dive in the Atlantic Ocean puts everything into practice in an exciting and controlled environment.

Two SSI Rescue Diver students practising underwater rescue skills with a surface marker buoy during open water dives at Barbarian Diving Tenerife

Day 3. Rescue Diver Certification Dives

Your final two open water rescue dives bring everything together. You will manage simulated dive emergencies, rescue unresponsive divers, and demonstrate that you have the skills and confidence to handle any situation underwater. By the end of Day 3 you will hold your SSI Rescue Diver certification, one of the most respected qualifications in recreational diving worldwide.

Frequently asked questions

What certifications do I need before this course?

A valid SSI Open Water Diver certification and the SSI React Right first aid certification. If you don't have React Right yet, we include it as Day 1 of the course.

Is the Rescue Diver course difficult?

It's challenging but incredibly rewarding, pushing you to think and act quickly underwater, with your instructor guiding every scenario step by step. If you can complete Open Water, you can complete Rescue.

Is the certification recognised worldwide?

Yes, a lifetime qualification accepted at dive centres around the world.

What will I learn?

To recognise and manage dive emergencies, assist tired or panicking divers, rescue unresponsive divers, perform CPR and use emergency oxygen, and coordinate a search and recovery.

Can I take React Right separately?

Yes, the first aid course can be taken on its own, open to divers and non-divers alike, and is valid for 2 years worldwide.

What happens if sea conditions aren't suitable?

We reschedule or move to an alternative sheltered site.

Can I fly before or after diving?

Flying before diving is fine. After your last dive, wait at least 18 to 24 hours before flying home.

Can I do Rescue straight after Open Water?

Yes, many students complete Open Water and go straight into Rescue during the same holiday. Ask about our combined package.

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→SSI Advanced Open Water Diver Course Tenerife →SSI Divemaster Course Tenerife. →Scuba Refresher Course Tenerife.Get Back in the Water | Barbarian Diving