EL CAJON WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Rescue Diver Certification: Take Command of an Underwater Emergency in El Cajon
A two-part PADI Rescue Diver course for ages 12+ that teaches prevention, emergency management, and rescue procedures; this guide explains prerequisites, course flow, and what’s included.
Rescue Diver Certification: Take Command of an Underwater Emergency in El Cajon.
In El Cajon, UnderWatters Co runs a Rescue Diver Certification that trains you to prevent and manage dive emergencies both on the surface and under the water. The course is considered one of the most rewarding scuba certifications, building practical rescue skills and confidence for both self-reliance and assisting others.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Mandatory eLearning before any in-water sessions
All knowledge development is delivered as eLearning that must be completed prior to getting into the water. When booking, pick the calendar date you want to start eLearning and staff will contact you to schedule the in-water sessions.
Ten rescue exercises and two simulated open-water scenarios
You will practice ten rescue exercises and complete two final simulated open-water scenario tests covering self-rescue, managing panicked divers, and the rescue of both responsive and unresponsive divers above and under the water.
EFR, Emergency Oxygen Provider & Equipment Specialist certifications
The course covers primary and secondary care—CPR, rescue breathing, shock management, AED use and emergency oxygen—and tuition includes Emergency Oxygen Provider and Equipment Specialist certifications. A valid EFR certification must be held by course completion (it can be obtained during the course for an additional cost or acquired beforehand).
What the day feels like
What the course feels like
The Rescue Diver course begins with focused eLearning and moves into hands-on practice: confined-water drills and progressive scenarios that escalate from self-rescue techniques to managing panicked or unresponsive divers, culminating in two full open-water scenario tests. Instruction is customized to your schedule with private instruction and gear support to keep the focus on skill mastery.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course is built for and who should wait.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
You must complete the required PADI eLearning prior to any in-water sessions; note that the PADI eLearning materials are NOT included in the course price and must be purchased separately. Class tuition does include gear rentals, first aid materials, air fills, towels and refreshments.
When booking, select the calendar date you wish to begin eLearning and the operator will contact you to create a customized course schedule. EFR certification can be completed during the course for an additional cost; tuition covers private instruction, PADI fees, Emergency Oxygen Provider and Equipment Specialist certifications and related consumables.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I have to finish eLearning before in-water sessions?
Yes. Required eLearning must be completed prior to any in-water class sessions.
How do I start the eLearning?
Select the date on the calendar when you want to begin your eLearning; UnderWatters staff will then reach out to provide course details and arrange a customized schedule.
What are the prerequisites for the Rescue Diver course?
You must have Advanced Open Water certification and be at least 12 years of age.
Do I need an EFR certification before the course?
You must hold a valid Emergency First Responder (EFR) certification by the completion of the Rescue Diver course. You can obtain it during the course (additional cost) or bring a valid certification obtained beforehand.
What does tuition include?
Tuition includes customized scheduling, private instruction, gear rentals, first aid materials, PADI fees, air fills, towels and refreshments; Emergency Oxygen Provider and Equipment Specialist certifications are also included. The only item not included is the PADI eLearning materials.
What exercises and assessments are part of the course?
The course includes ten rescue exercises and two final simulated open-water scenario tests that cover self-rescue, panicked-diver management, and rescues of both responsive and unresponsive divers.