I think that I have decided to go with SSI. Will SSI prepare me to be a good and safe diver?

Rev, SSI is a very good orginization, but almost everything is in the quality of the instructor. The one I took OW with was fantastic, very thorough, and drove home every important point a lot.

My first dive vacation was a week in Roatan, and I had no problems, just remembered what he taught me and I was fine down to 110 feet.

Try and see about the instructor before you do anything, that will help you out.

Where you located BTW?

North GA

Any of the major agencies offer fine instruction. Most people spend more time investigating and comparing their next toaster purchase than the dive store or instructor that will train them with scuba. Now days you have to be an informed consumer, ask questions and compare what the store or instructor will be offering for the money.