Without proper training, attempting to search for a missing buddy underwater may put you at risk.

Without proper training, attempting to search for a missing buddy underwater may put you at risk.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Depends

Answer: (A)

Underwater search-and-recovery actions require training; attempting a missing-buddy search without that training can put you at risk. When you’re not trained, you may mismanage air and buoyancy, lose orientation, or become entangled in lines, debris, or currents while chasing a cue. Training teaches you how to assess conditions, follow established search patterns, communicate effectively with your buddy and surface support, and know when to abort and ascend for help. Without those skills, the danger to you and to others increases rapidly, so the safest course is to surface and call for properly trained rescue assistance.

Underwater search-and-recovery actions require training; attempting a missing-buddy search without that training can put you at risk. When you’re not trained, you may mismanage air and buoyancy, lose orientation, or become entangled in lines, debris, or currents while chasing a cue. Training teaches you how to assess conditions, follow established search patterns, communicate effectively with your buddy and surface support, and know when to abort and ascend for help. Without those skills, the danger to you and to others increases rapidly, so the safest course is to surface and call for properly trained rescue assistance.