Hyperbaric chambers

To dive means to enter into an environment that is not natural to the human being.  Thus, it is essential that the instructions of the guides are thoroughly followed during the course, in order to exit safely. In the event of an emergency, the Archipelago of the Azores has hyperbaric chambers available, namely: on the island of Faial, in the Hospital da Horta (located at the Estrada Príncipe Alberto do Mónaco; Tel.: 292 201 000); and on the island of São Miguel, in the Hospital do Divino Espírito Santo, in Ponta Delgada (at Rua da Grotinha; Tel.: 292 203 000).

Emergency contacts

National Emergency number – 112

VHF Emergency channel – 16

In the event of a decompressing disease

A conscious diver:

-  Give him/her fluids orally, preferably water

-  Supply oxygen at 100%, at a rate of 15 litres /minute

-  Transport the diver, in horizontal position, to the closest hyperbaric chamber without interrupting the supply of oxygen

An unconscious diver:

- Apply basic life supporting techniques

- Supply oxygen at 100%, at a rate of 15 litres /minute

- Transport the diver to the closest hyperbaric chamber, in a Lateral Safety Position (LSP) without interrupting the supply of oxygen.