Key West

• Plan for boat diving: listen for roll-call procedures, entry and exit cues, and current plans.
• Use an SMB when appropriate, especially if the operator expects group ascents or if current is present.
• Stay hydrated and manage sun exposure. Heat and dehydration are common trip-enders.
• If you are combining a deep wreck with a second dive, keep the second dive shallow and conservative.

Key West has hospital care via Lower Keys Medical Center. For diving-related concerns, seek professional evaluation early, especially for suspected decompression illness. Hyperbaric treatment planning should be coordinated through local emergency services and DAN when appropriate. In-water injuries (fire coral, cuts) should be cleaned promptly to reduce infection risk.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary includes zones such as Sanctuary Preservation Areas and conservation areas. In these zones, diving and snorkeling are allowed but fishing and collecting are restricted or prohibited, and touching or standing on coral is prohibited. Follow your operator's briefing, use mooring buoys, never anchor on reefs, and keep excellent buoyancy and fin control to avoid coral contact.

Good low-impact habits in Key West:

• Keep hands off the reef and do not grab sea fans, sponges, or coral.
• Do not chase, ride, or feed wildlife. Give turtles and rays space to surface and move.
• Control your gear so gauges, octos, and fins do not drag.
• Choose operators that emphasize reef education and responsible practices (for example, those recognized by NOAA programs like Blue Star).