NASE Dive Class Practice Test

Before ascending from a dive, it is essential for divers to establish a safety stop if required. This practice helps to prevent decompression sickness, which can occur when dissolved gases in the body form bubbles as a diver ascends too quickly. During a safety stop, divers typically pause at a depth of around 5 to 15 meters (15 to 5 feet) for three to five minutes, allowing the body to off-gas excess nitrogen that has accumulated during the dive. This contributes significantly to a safer ascent and reduces the risk of related dive accidents. Other actions, such as swimming straight to the surface or abruptly changing breathing patterns, do not follow best safety practices and can increase the risk of injury while ascending. Signaling to other divers may be necessary but is secondary to ensuring that all divers complete safe ascent protocols.