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Port Hueneme, California. (January 31, 2025): What sets Navy divers apart is that they are continuously surrounded by that which can kill them. Unlike surface warriors, Navy divers can die if they make even one mistake deep beneath the waves. In this photo by Lisa Ferdinando, Navy Lieutenant Commander Igor Vladimirov and Petty Officer 2nd Class Cody Kramer receive emergency scuba training at the Naval Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center here. The Center trains divers how to respond to underwater emergencies including rescuing lost, trapped, or unconscious divers and how to treat a variety of dive-related illnesses.

During the arduous training, divers are confronted with real-world scenarios and evaluated on their ability to respond appropriately. Students are challenged to locate lost or trapped divers and how to safely rescue someone who is unconscious. Students learn how to use emergency oxygen to treat scuba diving injuries, assess neurological damage, and the proper first aid to apply.