7
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Sand ripples usually form long lines parallel to the shore.
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The direction of currents should be noted by their effect on algae or drifting particles. Use the compass to check the
bearing of the current.
•
In shallow water, the sun’s direction can be seen from shadows on the bottom, or by looking towards the surface.
•
Swimming in a straight line along the bottom is greatly facilitated if you can line up three distinctive objects in your line
of vision. As you reach the fi rst one, line up a new one farther away, so that you again have three points determining
your course. This way you can counteract the effects of side current.
Compass Balancing
The horizontal and vertical components of earth’s magnetic fi eld vary in different locations. For this reason Suunto compass-
es are balanced for 2 different zones. If the compass is used in an adjacent balancing zone the compass needle will tilt only
slightly. However, the farther the compass is used from it’s intended zone, the more the needle will tilt. In extreme situations
the needle might stick. For this reason it is very important to know in which country the compass will be used.
Compass zone map
