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#51828
Should Scuba Divers have their own "salute"?
Greg - 1/16/2014 9:54 AM
Category: General
Replies: 19

You know how bikers use a "salute" as they’re passing one another on the road? The left arm down at an angle, usually with two fingers out.

Should Scuba Divers have their own "salute" as well? Every diver I’ve ever met is awesome...it’s like we’re one big family. It would be great to have a common salute if we notice a dive flag on your car, or you’re wearing a scuba t-shirt or dive watch. Maybe we can use the OK signal or something. That might start up a conversation, then bam!...you have a new dive buddy and friend.
#8590
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dalehall - 1/16/2014 10:33 AM
I’ve often wondered this myself. I pass by other vehicles that have Dive Flags on them and thought we needed a common signal. The "OK" was the first to hit my mind too. Of course, then you do it and it’s their non-diving significant other that’s driving the vehicle and you just look like a Jack-a-lope to them. :)
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LatitudeAdjustment - 1/16/2014 12:24 PM
I have had divers see my divers down license plate frame and flash me an OK sign.
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RockRat2008 - 1/16/2014 2:35 PM
But do you use the little Ok or the big Ok? LOL
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lerpy - 1/16/2014 3:53 PM
The OK would seem most suitable, I am guessing like the thumbs down the out of air might be taken the wrong way. LOL.
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OtherHalf - 1/16/2014 5:29 PM
The OK sign does have some negative connotations in some areas and for some people. It means OK in the water, but on the road its a colloquial sign for calling someone an A-hole.

Use with caution.
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Airworks - 1/17/2014 3:33 AM
Based on the responses so far, my suggestion would be to integrate a salute (right hand raised to the right side of forehead) with the OK sign. Divers typically signal OK with the hand held vertically. The diver salute, however, would be made by raising the hand to the forehead in a horizontal salute, with the index finger and thumb pointing down and making the OK sign.
#7367
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UWnewbee - 1/17/2014 5:15 AM
From OtherHalf: The OK sign does have some negative connotations in some areas and for some people. It means OK in the water, but on the road its a colloquial sign for calling someone an A-hole.
Hmm 1st ive heard of this, i been riding for years and ive always used and known that the universal internationally known middle finger has always worked
#8590
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dalehall - 1/17/2014 7:51 AM
Maturity is overrated. :D
#51828
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Greg - 1/17/2014 7:54 AM
From Airworks: The diver salute, however, would be made by raising the hand to the forehead in a horizontal salute, with the index finger and thumb pointing down and making the OK sign.
This sounds like a real salute. That might be a little silly to do. I think I’ll stick with the normal OK sign. And if we’re driving, left hand might be better.
#51828
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Greg - 1/17/2014 7:54 AM
From EskimoBluDay: I would think a simple wave would be sufficient. Having a "special" signal smacks of a lack of confidence and immaturity.
Or maybe someone is too shy to meet other people using an awesome secret hand gesture :)
#7367
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UWnewbee - 1/17/2014 9:39 AM
just start breakdancing im sure there will be some sort of move thatll be acceptable lol
#7367
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UWnewbee - 1/17/2014 9:43 AM
"You know how bikers use a "salute" as they’re passing one another on the road? The left arm down at an angle, usually with two fingers out." Ive Never known this to be a "salute" its always been a wave/gesture
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Eric_R - 1/17/2014 3:35 PM
The OK seems the most logical.
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uwlover4u - 1/20/2014 5:33 AM
How about that gesture from the old cable show "Three sheets"?
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cmulvaney - 1/23/2014 8:38 PM
I prefer the Shaka myself.

This is sign language for scuba diving...
signingsavvy.com/sign/SCUBA%20DIVING/4437/1
#783
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dontdiveenuf - 2/03/2014 3:08 PM
I like the Shaka as well - signaling that we’re OK while driving ... well, I would HOPE we’re OK if we’re behind the wheel! :-)