National Association for Cave Diving

National Association for Cave Diving (NACD) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the safe practice of cave diving. Established in 1968, the NACD is recognized as one of the first organizations to offer formal education and training in cave diving.

History

The NACD was founded in 1968 in response to a growing number of fatalities related to cave diving. The founders recognized the need for specialized training and safety standards in this high-risk activity. Since its inception, the NACD has been instrumental in promoting safe cave diving practices through education, training, and the development of safety guidelines.

Mission

The mission of the NACD is to promote safe cave diving through education, training, and the dissemination of safety guidelines. The organization aims to reduce the number of cave diving fatalities and injuries by providing divers with the knowledge and skills necessary to dive safely in cave environments.

Training

The NACD offers a range of training programs designed to equip divers with the skills and knowledge necessary to safely explore underwater caves. These include Basic Cave Diver, Apprentice Cave Diver, and Full Cave Diver courses. The organization also offers specialty courses such as Cavern Diver, Intro to Cave Diver, and Side Mount Cave Diver.

Safety Guidelines

The NACD has developed a set of safety guidelines for cave diving. These guidelines cover a range of topics, including equipment requirements, dive planning, emergency procedures, and conservation practices. The NACD's safety guidelines are widely recognized and respected in the cave diving community.

Membership

Membership in the NACD is open to anyone interested in cave diving. Members receive a number of benefits, including access to NACD training programs, a subscription to the NACD's quarterly journal, and the opportunity to participate in NACD events and activities.

See Also

• Cave Diving
• Scuba Diving
• Underwater Diving