What is the most common cause of diving fatalities?

According to DAN (Divers Alert Network) annual reports, the most common contributing factors are cardiovascular disease, pre-existing conditions, and poor buoyancy control leading to rapid ascents. Running out of air is rarely the primary cause but is often a contributing factor.

Should I always carry a cutting tool?

Yes. A dive knife, cutting tool, or line cutter should be part of every diver's standard kit. They are essential for entanglement emergencies and have saved many lives. Mount it where you can access it with either hand.

Emergency Procedures Underwater - Dive Safety Guide | Diveity

Even well-prepared divers can encounter emergencies underwater. Knowing the correct response — and practising it until it is instinctive — is what separates a safe diver from a dangerous one. The most common emergencies are predictable and manageable.

Out-of-Air Emergency

Running out of air is almost always preventable. Monitor your pressure gauge regularly and agree on turn-around pressure with your buddy before every dive.

If you or your buddy runs out of air, follow these steps in order:

Signal your buddy immediately using the out-of-air signal (hand across throat).
Your buddy donates their alternate air source (octopus). Breathe from it while maintaining physical contact with your buddy.
Begin a controlled ascent together at no more than 9 metres per minute. Stop for 3 minutes at 5 metres if possible.
Do not separate until you are safely on the surface.

Uncontrolled Ascent

An uncontrolled ascent (also called a "blow-up") occurs when a diver loses buoyancy control and ascends rapidly. This is one of the most dangerous situations in diving, as it can cause decompression sickness and arterial gas embolism.

Dump air from your BCD and drysuit (if applicable) immediately.
Vent orally if dump valves are not responding fast enough.
Flare your body to increase drag — arms and legs spread wide.
Avoid grabbing anything to stop your ascent — this can cause injury.

Entanglement

Stop moving immediately. Struggling causes tighter entanglement. Signal your buddy and allow them to assist. A dive knife or cutting tool is the correct solution for monofilament and fishing line — not force.

Assisting a Distressed Diver at the Surface

Approach a distressed diver from behind to avoid being pulled under. Inflate both BCDs. Signal for assistance. Keep their airway clear and their face out of the water. Tow them to the boat or shore using an underwater tow hold.

Out-of-Air Emergency

Running out of air is almost always preventable. Monitor your pressure gauge regularly and agree on turn-around pressure with your buddy before every dive.

If you or your buddy runs out of air, follow these steps in order:

Signal your buddy immediately using the out-of-air signal (hand across throat).

Your buddy donates their alternate air source (octopus). Breathe from it while maintaining physical contact with your buddy.

Begin a controlled ascent together at no more than 9 metres per minute. Stop for 3 minutes at 5 metres if possible.

Do not separate until you are safely on the surface.

Uncontrolled Ascent

Dump air from your BCD and drysuit (if applicable) immediately.

Vent orally if dump valves are not responding fast enough.

Flare your body to increase drag — arms and legs spread wide.

Avoid grabbing anything to stop your ascent — this can cause injury.