SUUNTO Gekko - Manual (Page 12)

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use, displays and limitations of the instrument. If you have any questions about
the manual or the di ve computer, contact your SUUNT O dealer before di ving
with the dive computer.
Always remember that YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFE-
TY!
When used properly, the dive computer is an outstanding tool for assisting prop-
erly trained, certifi ed divers in planning and e xecuting sport dives. It is NOT A
SUBSTITUTE FOR CERTIFIED SCUBA INSTRUCTION, including training
in the principles of decompression.
Diving with enriched air mixtures (nitrox) exposes the user to risks different from
those associated with diving with standard air. These risks are not ob vious and
require training to understand and a void. Risks include possible serious injury
or death.
Do not attempt to di ve with an y gas mix other than standard air without fi rst
receiving certifi ed training in this specialty.
1.1.1. Emergency Ascents
In the unlikely event that the dive computer malfunctions during a di ve, follow
the emergency procedures pro vided by your certifi ed dive training agenc y or,
alternatively,
STEP 1: Assess the situation calmly and then move promptly to less than 18 m
[60 ft].
STEP 2: At 18 m [60 ft], slow down your ascent rate to 10 m/min [33 ft/min]
and move to a depth between 3 and 6 meters [10 to 20 ft].
STEP 3: Stay there as long as you assess your air supply will safely allo w. After
reaching the surface stay out of the water for at least 24 hours.
1.1.2. Dive Computer Limitations
While the dive computer is based on current decompression research and technol-
ogy, you must realize that the computer cannot monitor the actual physiological
functions of an individual diver. All decompression schedules currently known to
the authors, including the U.S. Navy Tables, are based on theoretical mathemati-
cal models, which are intended to serv e as a guide to reduce the probability of
decompression illness.
1.1.3. Nitrox
Diving with nitrox provides the diver with an opportunity to increase bottom times
or reduce the risk of decompression illness by reducing the nitrogen content in
the breathing gas mix.