Emergencies underwater: how to think and act
A protocol for thinking and acting in underwater emergencies and the importance of calm in critical moments.
In an emergency moment underwater, anyone who trained acts correctly, and anyone who did not train acts in panic.
The STOP system in emergencies
S — Stop
Stop any random movement and stabilize yourself. Physical panic is the first step toward disaster.
T — Think
What is happening? What options are available? You always have seconds to think, even in an emergency.
O — Observe
Where is your buddy? What is the state of your air? What is the real danger?
P — Plan and Proceed
Decide the next step and carry it out calmly.
Common emergencies and their solutions
Out of air
Do not panic. Signal your buddy, request their backup air, and ascend together at a normal rhythm.
Losing your buddy
Stay in place for one minute searching visually, then ascend to the surface immediately.
A dislodged mask
Close your eyes, put the mask on with both hands, return it to its place, and clear the water from it by blowing.
The diver who trains for emergencies turns a potential disaster into a manageable situation.