How should divers react if they notice a buddy in distress?

When divers become aware that a buddy is in distress, the appropriate reaction is to immediately assess the situation and provide assistance. This response is crucial for several reasons.

First, diving often occurs in environments where visibility may be limited and assistance can be vital for the safety and survival of an impaired diver. A quick assessment allows the buddy to understand the nature of the problem—whether the diver is facing a medical issue, a gear malfunction, or difficulty maintaining buoyancy, for example.

Second, promptly assisting a buddy can prevent a situation from escalating further. Distress can quickly turn to panic, leading to dangerous scenarios for both the distressed diver and their buddy. By taking immediate action to provide assistance, a diver can help to stabilize the situation, offer support, and lead the distressed buddy back to safety.

Lastly, the principle of buddy diving emphasizes mutual support. Each diver is responsible not just for themselves but also for their buddy. Actively engaging in the assessment and assistance process reinforces this principle and enhances overall dive safety for both divers.

Focusing solely on personal safety or avoiding the situation can leave the partner in serious jeopardy, while waiting for instructions can delay necessary intervention. The most proactive and responsible approach always leads to immediate assessment and assistance.