What practices should be followed when ascending from deep water?

When ascending from deep water, checking buoyancy regularly is crucial for maintaining control during the ascent. As divers ascend, changes in pressure affect the volume of gas in their lungs and any buoyancy control device they might be using. Monitoring buoyancy every meter or a few feet allows divers to make necessary adjustments and avoid uncontrolled ascents, which could lead to barotrauma or other complications.

Maintaining a controlled ascent rate is vital for safely expelling nitrogen that the body has absorbed during the dive. Rapid ascents can cause nitrogen bubbles to form too quickly, resulting in decompression sickness. Therefore, careful buoyancy checks also help in ensuring that divers ascend at a safe and gradual rate.

Additionally, this practice contributes to overall situational awareness, as divers can continuously assess their environment and their ascent path, reducing the risk of hazards like entanglement or sudden changes in water current.