Diving Emergency
What to do in a diving emergency or if you suspect Decompression Illness (DCI) or 'the bends'. Who to call. How to manage a diving accident.
Advice and Referral for Gas Embolism only
Healthcare professionals seeking urgent advice or referral for patients with suspected gas embolism should call the Single Point of Access on 020 4632 2377. This provides rapid access to a Hyperbaric Physician for specialist advice, triage and coordination of transfer to treatment.
Diving Incident First Aid
- Keep the casualty lying down
- Give 100% oxygen by tight fitting mask
- Rehydrate with electrolyte solution, or best possible alternative, e.g., sports drinks, water, etc.
- Keep the patient comfortable
Sea Diving
Call the Coastguard, DSC or VHF Channel 16/Dial 999 (24 hrs). Then call the National Diving Accident Helpline on 07831 151 523 (24 hrs) in England and Wales or 0345 408 6008 in Scotland.
On Land
Please contact your nearest available BHA member chamber. If you do not know the location of your nearest BHA member chamber then please call the 07831 151 523 (24 hrs) in England and Wales or 0345 408 6008 in Scotland.
If the patient is seriously unwell or deteriorating rapidly, inform the emergency services promptly by dialing 999 on land or VHF Channel 16 if at sea. or proceed to your nearest Accident and Emergency Department.

