PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

What is a disadvantage of divers swimming towards the instructor?

1. It obscures visibility in clear water

2. It puts the instructor too far from the group

3. It makes equipment handling more difficult

4. It restricts the instructor from supervising

The correct answer is: It puts the instructor too far from the group

When divers swim towards the instructor, a significant disadvantage is that it puts the instructor too far from the group. This distance can create a situation where the instructor has less control over the overall safety and situation management of the group. Effective supervision requires maintaining close proximity, allowing the instructor to monitor the divers' positions, their comfort levels, and readiness to handle any situation that may arise. When instructors are too far away, they cannot easily observe or respond to divers in distress, or intervene if someone exhibits signs of discomfort or an emergency. The dynamics of group diving stress the importance of having the instructor able to maintain a visual contact and to provide guidance and support as needed. This idea emphasizes why maintaining a suitable distance is crucial for safety and effective communication within the diving group.