Emergency Preparedness: How to Handle Problems Before They Happen

Most diving emergencies aren’t random accidents—they’re the result of poor planning, missed warning signs, or confusion during stressful moments. The good news? You can prepare for almost all of them in advance.

This section focuses on how to build real-world emergency skills, reduce panic responses, and prepare yourself and your team to stay calm when things go wrong.

Out-of-Air Scenarios

What should you actually do if you or your buddy runs out of gas? This section explains common donation techniques, when to ascend, and why practice matters.

What to Do If You Lose Your Dive Buddy

It happens. Someone gets distracted, poor visibility separates you, or someone surfaces without a signal. Here’s what to do when the buddy system breaks down.

Emergency Procedures

From equipment failures to disorientation or entanglement, this page walks through the most common dive emergencies and how to respond.

When to Call a Dive

The decision to end a dive isn’t always easy. This guide helps you recognize when calling the dive is the right call—and how to communicate it clearly with your buddy.

Essential Surface Support Gear

Good dive planning includes thinking about the surface. This page covers must-have support items like SMBs, whistles, mirrors, and communication plans.

Essential Medical Supplies

Oxygen kits, first aid, and DAN guidance—this section covers what you should have on hand for shore dives, boat dives, and remote locations.