PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

What is essential to consider when planning a dive in a current?

1. Time of day

2. Current direction and strength

3. Water temperature

4. Type of equipment used

The correct answer is: Current direction and strength

When planning a dive in a current, understanding the current direction and strength is vital for ensuring diver safety and effective dive execution. Currents can significantly influence a diver's experience, including their ability to navigate, stay together with the group, conserve air, and ascend safely. Recognizing the strength of the current allows divers to assess how it might affect their entry and exit points, as well as their overall dive plan. For instance, a strong current may require divers to plan for a drift dive or take into account the additional energy required to swim against it. Additionally, knowing the direction of the current can help divers surface and navigate back to their exit point more effectively. While considerations like time of day, water temperature, and type of equipment are important for diving in general, they do not have the same direct and critical impact on the planning and safety of a dive in a current. Understanding the dynamics of the current is essential for avoiding potentially hazardous situations and ensuring a successful dive experience.