Buddy Check Scuba Diving - Bruce Willis Ruins All Films

There are several mnemonics for the buddy check:

Begin with review and friend
Bruce Willis Ruins All Films
With Many apologies to Bruce Willis. I am a huge bruce willis fan. Love Die Hard etc. But this is how my instructor taught me not to die underwater

There are several forms of buddy check, but almost all cover five definite principles. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors BWRAF formula is as follows:

B - Begin - BCD
Check function of BCD. Operate inflator and deflator to ensure that BCD can accept and release air. Test oral inflator. Operate all dumps to check that air can be dumped quickly. Ensure straps (shoulder straps, cummerbund) have no slack, and are lying flat.

W - With - Weights
If a weight belt is worn, check that the belt is secure, and the strap arranged so that it can be released with the right hand of the diver. Ensure that weights on the belt are not likely to shift during movement, and are suitable for the diver. If a weight harness is worn, or the BCD possesses an integrated-weights system, test system for adequate operation. A secondary aim is to ensure that the buddy is familiar with the weight system of the diver being checked, and is able to operate them in an emergency

R - Releases
Starting from front, verbally noting all releases and forms i.e. clip, push, velcro and ending with buddy turning back checking tank clamp.

A - And - Air
Open air valve on tank. Most divers then close the tank a quarter turn for an added element of safety. Breathe the air through the regulators to ensure that it is fresh and dry: impure air is extremely dangerous underwater, but can usually be recognised through an unpleasant, often oily, taste or smell.

F - Friend - Final Check
Conduct a final check of the diver. Ensure that hoses are clipped to the diver neatly, and are in the correct configuration. Make sure the diver has fins and a mask, and any other accessories (cameras, reels, knife, compass, torch etc.) needed for the dive. Check that these are secured to the diver, or else placed in a spot where they can be handed down once the diver is in the water. Correct anything else that needs doing.

The PADI mnemonic (Begin with Review and Friend) is the standard one taught by the agency, but many divers have their own; Burger with Relish and Fries is one of the more popular.