CAYMAN ISLANDS (14 Mar 2007) -- A Cayman Islands dive resort allegedly ignored basic scuba diving safety standards, and by doing so, may have caused the disappearance and presumed death of one of its customers. Heidi Theresa Carson, 43, disappeared while scuba diving on February 11after PADI Gold Palm 5-Star Little Cayman Beach Resort and Reef Divers failed to provide her with a "buddy" diver. The Cayman Water Sports Operators Association Code of Safety Requirements strictly prohibits solo dives and mandates that all dive operators in the Cayman Islands require customers to utilize the "buddy system". The "buddy system" is an internationally endorsed scuba diving safety standard that aims to enhance diver safety by requiring divers to dive in pairs. During entry-level scuba courses, divers learn how to assist a buddy diver who may encounter problems such as equipment failure and disorientation. Cover up? According to police reports, Carson disappeared while scuba diving at Bloody Bay Wall, a popular dive site off Little Cayman Island. There were five scuba divers and two snorkelers on the Reef Divers boat, but only one divemaster. | | A diver is missing and presumed dead after an apparent violation of safety regulations by Little Cayman Beach Resort and Reef Divers. After the dive boat crew realized Carson was missing, they called for help. Five boats responded, however, no helicopters nor fixed wing aircraft were available to search for the missing diver. In an apparent attempt to cover up the accident, management of the Little Cayman Beach Resort and Reef Divers have refused to answer questions about why Carson was diving alone when she disappeared. © CDNN - CYBER DIVER NEWS NETWORKSCUBA FORUMDISCUSS THIS TOPIC - Dive in and have your say at Scuba Forum |
