## How Many People Die Scuba Diving in Florida Each Year?
Scuba diving is a popular recreational activity in Florida, but it also carries some inherent risks. One of the most serious risks is death. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), an average of 10 people die scuba diving in Florida each year.
### Causes of Death
The most common cause of death in scuba diving is drowning. This can happen if a diver runs out of air, gets lost, or becomes disoriented. Other causes of death include decompression sickness, which is caused by a buildup of nitrogen bubbles in the body; cardiac arrest; and pulmonary embolism, which is a blockage of the pulmonary artery.
### Risk Factors
There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of death in scuba diving. These include:
* Inexperience
* Lack of training
* Diving alone
* Diving in unfamiliar waters
* Diving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
### How to Reduce the Risk of Death
There are a number of things you can do to reduce the risk of death in scuba diving. These include:
* Get certified by a reputable scuba diving organization.
* Take a refresher course before each diving trip.
* Dive with a buddy.
* Dive in familiar waters.
* Avoid diving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
### If You Experience an Emergency
If you experience an emergency while scuba diving, it is important to stay calm and follow these steps:
* Ascend slowly to the surface.
* Do not hold your breath.
* Call for help.
* If you are unconscious, someone should perform CPR.
### Conclusion
Scuba diving is a safe and enjoyable activity when it is done properly. However, it is important to be aware of the risks involved and take steps to reduce your risk of death. By following the tips above, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable scuba diving experience.
## Additional Information
In addition to the information above, here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
* [Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission: Scuba Diving Safety](https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/scuba/)
* [National Institute of Diving](https://www.nid.org/)
* [Professional Association of Diving Instructors](https://www.padi.com/)
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