PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following is a recommended action during ascent to prevent decompression illness?

1. Ascend rapidly to the surface

2. Make a 3 minute safety stop at 5 meters/15 feet

3. Stay at a depth of 30 meters for longer

4. Ignore air supply levels

The correct answer is: Make a 3 minute safety stop at 5 meters/15 feet

Making a 3-minute safety stop at a depth of 5 meters (15 feet) during ascent is a recommended action to help prevent decompression illness. This practice is important because it allows inert gases, primarily nitrogen, that have been absorbed by the body during the dive to be released more safely and efficiently. When a diver ascends too quickly, these gases can form bubbles in the tissues and bloodstream, leading to decompression sickness. The safety stop acts as a buffer, providing a gradual and controlled ascent. It reduces the risk of the nitrogen forming bubbles, allowing the body time to eliminate the excess nitrogen through respiration and natural bodily processes. This precaution is particularly beneficial for deeper or longer dives where the risk of decompression illness may be higher. In the context of dive safety strategies, it’s essential to adhere to safe ascent rates and carefully monitor dive profiles, making the safety stop an integral part of the ascent procedure.