Most new divers are covered by Divers Alert Network insurance because their instructor signs them up. Unfortunately, too many divers let that coverage lapse. We think participating in Divers Alert Network (DAN) is a crucial step for any scuba diver, whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver. DAN is a global organization dedicated to improving dive safety through research, education, and emergency assistance. By becoming a member, you gain access to a wealth of resources designed to keep you safe and informed. This includes 24/7 emergency medical assistance, access to dive safety courses, and a subscription to the Alert Diver magazine, which is packed with valuable information on dive safety and health.
One common point of confusion among divers is the difference between DAN membership and dive insurance. DAN membership provides emergency medical transportation and travel assistance benefits, which are essential if you encounter a medical emergency while diving or traveling. However, it does not cover the medical costs of a dive accident itself. This is where dive insurance comes in. Dive insurance covers the medical expenses that result from a diving incident, such as hyperbaric chamber treatments, hospital care, and other related services. Essentially, while DAN membership ensures you can get to the necessary medical facilities, dive insurance ensures that the treatment costs are covered once you get there.
Having both DAN membership and dive insurance is highly recommended for comprehensive protection. DAN membership ensures that you have access to emergency medical transportation and other travel-related benefits, which can be a lifesaver in critical situations. Dive insurance, on the other hand, covers the potentially high costs of medical treatment following a dive accident. Together, they provide a safety net that every divers should have, and pray they never need to use.
Beyond the personal benefits, being a member of DAN also contributes to the larger diving community. DAN is heavily involved in dive safety research and education. Membership fees help fund these initiatives, which in turn benefit all divers by improving safety standards and practices. For example, DAN conducts research on decompression sickness and other dive-related health issues, and the findings from these studies are used to develop better safety protocols and training programs.
Moreover, DAN offers training and education programs that are available to divers worldwide. These programs include first aid training, dive safety courses, and even instructor training. By participating in these programs, you not only enhance your own safety skills but also contribute to a safer diving community. Knowledgeable and well-trained divers are less likely to experience accidents, and they are better equipped to assist others in emergency situations.
Joining DAN and obtaining dive insurance are both essential steps for any scuba diver. They provide comprehensive protection for yourself and contribute to the overall safety and well-being of the diving community. By supporting DAN, you are helping to fund critical research and education initiatives that make diving safer for everyone. So, whether you’re planning your next dive trip or just want to be prepared for any eventuality, consider becoming a DAN member and securing dive insurance today.
In case you’re wondering, DAN is not a sponsor and we don’t get anything from them in exchange for this article. We just think it’s that important that all divers support this worthy organization with their membership and get coverage in case the worst should happen.