How can divers minimize the risk of decompression sickness while using a dry suit?

Minimizing the risk of decompression sickness (DCS) while using a dry suit primarily revolves around safe diving practices, especially during ascent. Adhering to safe ascent rates and performing safety stops are critical measures that help divers off-gas the nitrogen absorbed during the dive.

During a dive, as pressure increases, divers absorb more nitrogen from the breathing gas. If a diver ascends too quickly, this nitrogen can form bubbles in the body, leading to decompression sickness. To mitigate this risk, divers should ascend slowly, typically no faster than 30 feet per minute, and incorporate safety stops, usually around 15 feet for a few minutes at the end of a dive. These practices allow the body sufficient time to release nitrogen safely and reduce the risk of DCS.

Using additional weights may affect buoyancy control and does not directly influence DCS risk. Limiting dive times only addresses one aspect of DCS risk but does not cover the critical nature of ascent rates. Having a buddy for monitoring is essential for safety reasons, but it does not specifically address the physiological mechanics involved in preventing DCS during ascent. Thus, the focus on safe ascent rates and safety stops is a well-established method to enhance diver safety in relation to decompression