There are several methods for donning your BCD while at the surface or underwater. Your instructor will demonstrate these methods during your confined water sessions. The method described below works both at the surface and underwater.

1. Place the 2nd stage in your mouth.
2. Hold the BCD in a tank-down position with the valve pointing towards you.
3. Position your arms down through the shoulder straps and place your hands on each side of the cylinder. Make sure the 2nd stage hose is between your arms. This prevents it from being caught underneath a shoulder strap.
4. Lift the BCD over your head and onto your back.
5. Fasten all straps and clips.