When should a diver perform a safety stop during ascent?

A safety stop is an essential protocol that divers use to minimize the risk of decompression sickness during ascent. This procedure typically involves pausing at a specified depth—usually around 15-20 feet—after ascending from deeper dives. The primary purpose of this stop is to allow nitrogen, which has been absorbed into the body's tissues during the dive, to safely off-gas or eliminate from the body.

Completing a safety stop helps to reduce the likelihood of nitrogen bubbles forming in the bloodstream, which can lead to decompression sickness, also known as "the bends." By incorporating this practice into each ascent, divers effectively enhance their safety, acknowledging that even short dives can involve risks associated with pressure changes and nitrogen absorption.

While feeling tired, diving depth, or temperature fluctuations may impact a diver's decisions and overall dive strategy, they are not universal indicators for performing a safety stop. The safety stop is a proactive measure that should be routinely followed, thereby demonstrating the importance of adhering to established diving protocols designed to ensure diver health and safety.