Is it safe to dive with ear plugs?

NO! you can't equalize with plugs. They do make masks with ear cups that are supposed to keep the water out but allow you to equalize your ears. I've never tried them so I can't tell you how reliable they are.

Doc's Proplugs make special earplugs with holes. The idea is to allow the air between the plug and your ear to bleed out under pressure. I have a pair, but have not used them because I have been able to equalize, and my ruptured ear drum is healed up.

Here is the link. www.proplugs.com

Nannymouse is correct. But with NORMAL earplugs pressure underwater creates quite a hazard. Don't use anything without checking with your local dive instructor or ask us. We're always here to help.

You might also look into the Pro Ear Mask. It is designed specifically to help with problems that you might want to use ear plugs for during a dive such as trying to keep water out of your ears to help prevent ear infections and the like.