First of all... if you dive, you should be a member of the Diver's Alert Network (DAN). This organization is a worldwide clearinghouse and hotline for medical personnel specializing in dive medicine. They offer a number of terrific insurance plans that no diver can afford to be without. If you're not already a DAN member, please visit their website now!

Local scuba groups

• The ScubaAustin Group is a web-based forum. Find a buddy for next weekend's dive, read and post messages about the latest in local diving, and get firsthand notice of dive shop sales and events.
• For those of the maroon persuasion, there's the TAMU Scuba Club.
• Well, of course Clearwater has a mailing list! You'll get advance notice of sales and upcoming trips. We promise not to flood your mailbox with garbage, and we won't sell or give your email address to anyone else.

Diving conditions

• Before you head for Mansfield Dam or Volente Beach this weekend, take a look at the current Lake Travis weather conditions.
• How about the Gulf of Mexico? NOAA can tell you the sea conditions and weather forecasts for the buoy closest to the Texas Flower Gardens.

Magazines

• Rodale's Scuba Diving is the premier magazine for gear reviews, travel information, and useful information on diving. Check out their excellent section for new divers. They also host a very active message board.
• Dive Training Magazine is another great resource for new divers. It's oriented toward improving your skills and increasing your knowledge about diving.

Training organizations

• You may already be certified through the Professional Diving Instructors Corporation (PDIC)...
• ... or the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI).