Visit just about any dive shop, or get online in search of dive equipment, dive sites, or other information, and you're bound to come across information about DAN - the Divers Alert Network. In many places, you need insurance to dive; and, in case you're wondering, DAN is a leader in the diving insurance industry. The network offers more than simple insurance; it offers peace of mind.
Emergencies Happen
Despite our best intent and despite what we might think we know, underwater emergencies can happen, and so can other travel emergencies. Take the case of a diver who suffered a stroke while underwater, shooting to the surface, and being dragged up onto deck for emergency oxygen. The boat's captain called DAN's 24 hour emergency hotline, and relevant medical and insurance information was on its way to the nearest hyperbaric chamber. The entire rescue went smoothly, in part, thanks to DAN. The diver was experienced; having been diving for more than fifteen years, and on that day, that diver never even had a clue about what was going to happen on that dive.
DAN Services
Not only does DAN keep a medical profile and personal information about each of its members on file in a database for instant access in the event of a travel or dive emergency, it also helps divers who don't have DAN cards when possible, by helping to coordinate evacuation and emergency help. Even if you're diving as single, with new buddies and people who don't know anything about you except for your first name, DAN decals attached to tanks allow boat captains and other emergency personnel to rapidly contact Divers Alert Network. DAN encourages members to carry a sealed envelope in their gear bags with pertinent details enclosed. Tell your dive buddy or another responsible party about the envelope’s location so that you can be properly identified and relevant information about any previous medical conditions can be relayed to onshore health care providers in the event an emergency happens.
Travel Assist is something all DAN members benefit from; and considering the fact that DAN membership and insurance is extremely inexpensive, with basic membership for individuals in the US at $35, and coverage for entire family costing just $55 per year, it is something none of us can afford to be without. There are a few different levels of coverage; even the most comprehensive plan comes with a premium that costs less than $75 per year, including membership. No matter how little you have left after paying for equipment, airfare, and charter expenses, DAN will still feel affordable while providing you with peace of mind.
For student divers, DAN offers a no-cost membership that introduces students to the benefits the organization provides, plus it provides some protection during the certification process as well as some select benefits designed specifically for those in training.
In case you're still on the fence, take a look at this checklist. DAN offers all members, regardless of level, a full menu of emergency support services:
- Emergency medical support
- Hyperbaric Chamber Treatment
- Air evacuation
- Coverage for any diving related injury
- Coordination of medical information
- 24 hour emergency hotline
Nowhere else can you get this type of benefits, with worldwide coverage.
DAN Industry Partner Program
Divers Alert Network has created a program that distinguishes dive industry entities that teach and promote dive safety. This helps all divers; not just DAN members. Finding DAN Industry Partners is simple; just use the easy locator tool found on the organization’s website.
It goes without saying that knowing DAN is on your side provides worry free travel and peace of mind while diving, enabling you to enjoy every minute of your journey without concerning yourself with fears that help might not be there when you need it.