Floats

[BatRay]

That helps a lot. It's making more sense, and it's obvious that a float is a valuable piece of equipment. I guess I'd better start thinking about assembling one.

Now, here's a question about float attachments. What kind of flag should a diver use? I notice that yours is yellow. Does that one work better than the red ones with a white stripe, or does it really matter?

 

[Oldsarge]

The red/white is traditional but for maximum visibility by the pesky sailboarders, either international (hunter's) orange or bright yellow are easier to see. Whether that makes you safer or a better target is an entirely different problem.

 

[BatRay]

True. I wouldn't want someone deciding that my flag is a fun obstacle and head toward it. Where, besides a local dive shop ($$$$$) can these flags be purchased? Any estimate on the total cost of building a float?

 

[Old Man Dave]

Almost anywhere in the world outside the good old US of A the flag meaning divers down keep clear is the International "A" flag (NATO #4) which is white and blue. This is the absolute worst colour combo for being seen. Commercial float markers are all orange or yellow, nuff said. The only other colour that's highly visible is strangely enough black. However black is not as visible as orange and yellow under low light conditions and rough seas although calm weather and bright sun sees black as best. I reckon you should go for an American divers flag and if it's yellow or orange so much the better. Help me out guys What's the American version of the A flag?
Will post you a pic of the "A" flag soon as.
Cost wise my float cost next to nothing. Dan floats are only £1 - £2 each max ($2 - $4) and plastic pipe a few pence (cents). Lead is mostly free except from church roofs where it costs 6 - 12 months down time for theft . Flags are sewn by my granny usually from vinyl as its better than cloth. Anyway "What is your life worth?".
Last point. I wonder if there's a world record for wind surfers? Boy I'd like to claim that one.
Dave

 

[Old Man Dave]

International "A" flag. "Divers - keep clear"

 

[old dave]

International "A" flag.= Divers in water.Warning Mariners to keep clear.methinks!

Good hunting

 

[Old Man Dave]

Old Dave
I'm sure you're right and that's the "exact" definition but I was trying to keep it simple as I was talking to the Americans.
Is the Southsea club "Southsea Bubbles" or is that too long ago?
Incidently we do catch a few fish here even if we use imported Italians. Nice one Fabio - stick it to them. :martial
Dave