What is the purpose of a buddy check before a cavern dive?

The purpose of a buddy check before a cavern dive focuses on ensuring that each diver's equipment is functioning properly and that both divers are mentally and physically ready for the dive. This critical safety procedure involves verifying that essential gear, such as masks, tanks, regulators, and safety equipment, is correctly set up and in good working order. By performing a buddy check, divers can identify any potential issues before entering the water, significantly reducing the risk of equipment failures during the dive.

In addition to verifying equipment, buddy checks foster communication between divers, allowing them to discuss each other's readiness and commitment to the dive. This proactive approach enhances safety by building trust and ensuring that both divers are aware of each other’s capabilities and limitations. This comprehensive preparation is essential in cavern diving, where conditions can quickly change and require a high level of readiness.

The other options, while they may contribute to the overall dive preparation, do not directly address the immediate safety focus that a buddy check provides. Comparing dive experiences, discussing environmental conditions, and establishing navigation plans are all important aspects of dive planning, but they do not replace the critical need to verify equipment readiness before embarking on a dive.