Regulator Skills
Breathing from a Free-Flowing Regulator
A free-flow is a constant delivery of air from the 2nd stage. While regulator failures are uncommon, this is the most likely regulator malfunction.
A free-flow will deplete your air supply in a matter of minutes, so it's important that you surface as soon as possible. You can continue to breathe from a free-flowing 2nd stage as you surface, and your instructor will have you practice this skill during the pool sessions.
To breathe from a free-flowing regulator, remove the 2nd stage from your mouth and place the mouthpiece lightly against the outside of your lips. This allows excess air to escape through the sides of your lips. Create a splash guard by placing your tongue against the roof of your mouth, look down, and breathe carefully. Ascend at a safe rate, and close the cylinder valve as soon as you surface to stop the free-flow.
A free-flow will deplete your air supply in a matter of minutes, so it's important that you surface as soon as possible. You can continue to breathe from a free-flowing 2nd stage as you surface, and your instructor will have you practice this skill during the pool sessions.
To breathe from a free-flowing regulator, remove the 2nd stage from your mouth and place the mouthpiece lightly against the outside of your lips. This allows excess air to escape through the sides of your lips. Create a splash guard by placing your tongue against the roof of your mouth, look down, and breathe carefully. Ascend at a safe rate, and close the cylinder valve as soon as you surface to stop the free-flow.
