What does the acronym START represent in cave diving?

The acronym START in cave diving stands for a set of safety checks that are crucial for divers prior to entering a cave environment. These checks guide divers in ensuring that they are properly prepared, equipped, and aware of potential hazards before commencing their dive. The START checklist typically includes considerations such as assessing the site conditions, verifying that all team members are equipped and prepared, conducting safety briefings, and ensuring that the planned dive aligns with the team's capabilities. This protocol is essential for promoting safety and enhancing the likelihood of a successful dive experience in the potentially challenging conditions of a cave.