Actually, I have thought about precisely this very issue in an effort to train my family members under "wet" conditions.
The goal would be to train them how to "feel" for escape equipment, maneuver within the hull, and escape through the hatch. Having practiced this under "wet" conditions would have the same confidence building / panic reducing effect as removal and donning SCUBA underwater.
What I am considering, is a light "open ended" mockup of the hull and tower, for my home swimming pool. Same dimensions, but a light and sturdy enough material to be practical, not damage the pool, and not move around too much.
Joe
From: ShellyDalg@aol.com
Reply-To: personal_submersibles@psubs.org
To: personal_submersibles@psubs.org
Subject: Re: [PSUBS-MAILIST] nekton fatality
Date: Sun, 1 Oct 2006 12:15:53 EDT
I wonder if there's a way to practice an escape under "wet" conditions (without flooding your sub.) As a diver, I have practiced several emergency techniques for different scenarios. I always assumed the psubs would carry scuba gear for all passengers, mask, tank, and belt, as a minimum. The small emergency bottles divers carry on cave/wreck dives are not sufficient. I've never owned one because I always thought they give a false sense of security. There's not much air in those things. Much better to be prepared for emergencies with proper training, planning, and practice. On dangerous dives, extra full size tanks with regulators, stationed within reach, is the best method. Naturally then, you'd want to have the same thing in the sub with you.
As for the accident, a blown window will result in instant pressurization, and at 200 feet, I'm surprised anyone survived. A very unfortunate accident, and a good lesson to us all. Frank D.