If you become separated from your dive buddy, what should you do?

When you become separated from your dive buddy, performing two 360-degree visual sweeps before surfacing is a prudent action. This method allows you to thoroughly search your immediate surroundings for your buddy before making a decision to surface. By scanning the area visually, you might spot your buddy nearby, which could prevent unnecessary surfacing and potential risk associated with coming up alone.

It's essential to assess the situation carefully before deciding to surface. Surfacing immediately may not give you the chance to find your buddy, and it could lead to increased anxiety or disorientation for them if they are close by. Trying to locate them underwater could be risky, especially if visibility is poor or if you venture too far from your last known position, making it difficult for both of you to reunite. Meanwhile, waiting at the last known depth could leave you in a situation where your buddy may not be able to find you or may surface themselves, ultimately leading to unnecessary separation. Therefore, making those visual sweeps serves both safety and efficacy in ensuring you rejoin your buddy effectively.