Anne Arundel Dive Services

Our diver's safety and the safety of others is #1. Policy dictates if the dive site (location) is not safe, we will not enter the water. This is what constitutes an unsafe dive site:

Pollution Dangers

The Anne Arundel County Health Department advises that after a heavy rainfall, all Anne Arundel County tributaries are under a no swimming/no direct water contact advisory for 48 hours due to predicted elevated bacteria levels from rainwater runoff and increased health risks.  This policy also applies to all AADS divers.  

Where Does This Pollution Come From? 

The most frequent sources of disease-causing microorganisms are from sewage overflows, polluted storm water runoff, sewage treatment plant malfunctions, boating wastes and malfunctioning septic systems. Pollution in river water is often much higher during and immediately after rainstorms because water draining into the tributaries may be carrying sewage from over­flowing sewage treatment systems. Rainwater also flows to our beaches after running off lawns, farms, streets, construction sites, and other urban areas, picking up animal waste, fertilizer, pesticides, trash and many other pollutants. Many of these pollutants can end up in the water. RESOURCE

[Scroll down for more information and articles on polution dangers.] 

Weather Related Dangers

High winds get boats to rocking and lightening poses an Electricution Danger. 

Electricution Dangers

Electrocution dangers pose a significant risk to divers and swimmers. 

Video: Dangers of Swimming [diving] in Marinas 

Article: Micro-Monsters Lurk in Chesapeake Waters (Courtesy South River Federation) 

Resource: Before You Go to the Beach, U.S. EPA