The BWRAF buddy check

The five-step check you and your buddy run together before every dive. Learn it here — then work through it on the dive itself, where each of you confirms your own side.

BWRAF

Buddies Who Respect Are Friends

  1. B – BCD

    Verify the low-pressure inflator works, the jacket inflates and deflates properly, and all dump valves function.

  2. W – Weights

    Confirm correct weight is loaded, secure, and easily ditchable in an emergency; both divers should know where each other's weight releases are located.

  3. R – Releases

    Check all harness buckles, shoulder straps, cummerbunds, and tank bands are tight; confirm you know how to open your buddy's clips.

  4. A – Air

    Check the cylinder valve is fully open, take a few breaths from both the primary regulator and alternate air source (octopus) while watching the pressure gauge to confirm the tank is full and air flows freely.

  5. F – Final Check

    Head-to-toe look for loose hoses, secure accessories (mask, fins), dive lights/cameras on, confirm dive computer settings and dive plan.

Reference only. On a dive you've joined, the buddy check appears in the dive plan so you and your buddy can each tick off your own side.

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