I was a SCUBA instructor in my twenties and I know something about what it takes to prepare someone to handle stressful situations underwater. The dive those Thai boys have to do to get out of that cave is a challenge to world-class divers on a number of counts: murky water, a deep segment, and a long, fatigue-inducing course. Worst of all, though, is that it's in a cave. It can be very hard for experienced, well-trained divers to hold down claustrophobia panic in an underwater cave if things get hairy.
I was happy and relieved that the two groups got out safely. I would keep my fingers crossed or pray for the last five if I thought either would help.
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I was glad to see that they used full facial masks on those young boys. You are correct...controlling that natural panic to be able to breathe underwater was of great concern to me. I am certified to dive in caves, and I still have to fight the fear. All the extra work they did to double tether, carrying pony tanks, etc. was excellent. I am glad the outcome was good but feel so bad for the one diver who died. He is indeed a hero.
thinktwice
Level 8
July 10, 2018
1
He is, but I can't help but think his heroics cost him his life. With cave diving, as with any form of diving where you can't simply ascend to the surface, caution, adherence to discipline and established procedure are of paramount importance.
@OldDave I did not read the details but someone said he ran out of air? Did he get stuck? Did he go without a buddy or spare? It is really disheartening when a supposed experienced diver dies...Yes, discipline and controlling panic takes practice and a lot of overly cautious measures. Nice to meet another diver!
@thinktwice Not all of the details are clear. He succumbed to lack of oxygen working in an air pocket in the cavern where the oxygen had been depleted by others working there previously. He lost consciousness and drowned.
Just seen on the T.V. the boys have all been rescued! Well done to all the rescuers.
Marionville
Level 10
July 10, 2018
3
what a fantastic effort all those amazing rescue staff did. Now time to help the Japanese with their floods. 115 already dead 
UUNJ
Level 8
July 10, 2018
1
wow! Thanks for that...I did not realize how narrow the choke point was...fortunately, the kids were small, but the divers...wow...tight squeeze indeed
I agree, my husband was a diver and can remember my anxiety waiting on board the dive boat waiting for him to surface. My thoughts are with all involved, both the divers and the boys, and of course the family of the diver who lost his life trying to rescue them.
Marionville
Level 10
July 10, 2018
1
Thank you for explaining the reason why this rescue is so dangerous! win
MissaDixon
Level 7
July 10, 2018
0
I have done caving in Va, and W Va. when I was younger and i can't imaging being underwater in a cave and I'm not really claustrophobic 'cause i nave been in many tight passageways.
starwatcher-al
Level 7
July 10, 2018
0
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