What is a good practice to ensure safety during a dive?

Double-checking equipment before diving is crucial to ensuring safety during a dive. This practice helps divers identify potential issues or malfunctions with their gear, such as leaks in the wetsuit, problems with the regulator, or insufficient tank pressure. By thoroughly inspecting all equipment, divers can address these concerns before entering the water, reducing the risk of accidents that could arise from malfunctioning gear. Proper maintenance and careful checks instill confidence in the diver and promote safety in the underwater environment, allowing for a more enjoyable and secure diving experience.

In contrast, diving solo can significantly increase risk by removing the safety net of having a buddy. Skipping safety stops can lead to serious decompression sickness by not allowing the body to off-gas nitrogen effectively during ascent. Ignoring environmental conditions can also expose divers to dangers like strong currents, poor visibility, or hazardous marine life, which should always be considered as part of a safe dive plan.