DAN First Aid & Emergency Training
We spend a lot of time practicing what to do when something goes wrong underwater. But what happens when the diver reaches the surface?
That is where CPR, first aid, emergency oxygen, and knowing when to call for help can make a real difference.
I teach three Divers Alert Network (DAN) first-aid programs through Dive With Frank. Whether you are a recreational diver, dive professional, boat crew member, or somebody who simply wants to be better prepared, there is training here for you.
You do not need to be a dive professional to learn how to help somebody.
At a Glance
- Courses: Basic Life Support, Emergency Oxygen, and Diving First Aid
- Format: Self-paced DAN eLearning followed by hands-on instructor-led training
- Who Can Attend: Divers, non-divers, dive professionals, and surface-support personnel
- Class Size: Private and small-group instruction
- Service Area: Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington, DC
- Scheduling: Flexible arrangements based on student needs and availability
Choose Your DAN Course
Each course builds practical emergency-response skills. The right choice depends on your current training and what you want to be prepared for.
Basic Life Support: CPR & First Aid
Best for: Anyone who wants practical CPR and general first-aid skills.
Learn CPR, AED use, choking response, bleeding control, patient assessment, and other first-aid skills that matter on a dive boat or anywhere else.
Prerequisites: None. No scuba certification or previous medical training required.
Emergency Oxygen for Scuba Diving Injuries
Best for: Divers, boat crew, trip leaders, and anyone who may assist during a diving emergency.
Learn to recognize possible diving injuries, safely assemble and operate emergency oxygen equipment, and use appropriate oxygen delivery methods.
Prerequisite: Current qualifying full CPR certification. DAN BLS or another recognized CPR program can satisfy this requirement.
Diving First Aid (DFA)
Best for: Divers who want the broadest DAN first-aid training I offer.
DFA combines Basic Life Support and Emergency Oxygen with neurological assessment and first aid for hazardous marine life injuries.
Prerequisites: No dive professional rating required. You do not need to complete BLS and Emergency Oxygen separately first.
Which DAN Course Should I Take?
If you want general CPR and first aid, start with Basic Life Support. If you already have qualifying CPR training and want to be prepared for a diving injury, consider Emergency Oxygen.
If you want the complete emergency-response toolkit, Diving First Aid brings CPR, first aid, emergency oxygen, neurological assessment, and marine life injury care together in one comprehensive program.
Real Practice. Not Checkbox Training.
DAN uses eLearning for knowledge development, but the practical skills are taught in person. We work with training manikins, AED trainers, emergency oxygen equipment, patient assessments, and realistic scenarios.
I teach privately and in small groups so there is time to practice, ask questions, correct mistakes, and try again. Emergency training should build confidence, not just produce another certification card.
I’d much rather have you discover during class that you connected an oxygen regulator incorrectly than discover it while your buddy is lying on the deck of a dive boat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a certified diver?
No. DAN first-aid courses are open to divers and non-divers. Basic Life Support is useful for anyone, while Emergency Oxygen and Diving First Aid focus more heavily on injuries and emergencies associated with diving and water activities.
Do I need CPR certification before taking Emergency Oxygen?
Yes. You need current qualifying full CPR certification. DAN Basic Life Support meets that requirement, and other recognized CPR programs may also qualify. If you need both, we can arrange the training together.
Can I complete these courses entirely online?
No. DAN eLearning covers the academics, but instructor-led, hands-on skills training is required to complete certification.
Can you arrange private or group training?
Absolutely. I offer private and small-group instruction with flexible scheduling. Dive With Frank serves students throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Contact me to discuss arrangements.
Ready to Get Trained?
Choose a course above to learn more or visit its registration page for current dates and pricing.
Not sure which program makes the most sense? Ask Frank. Tell me what training you already have and what you want to be prepared for. We’ll figure it out.
Because hoping somebody else on the boat knows what to do is not much of an emergency plan.
