Out-of-air response
Managing an out-of-air situation requires immediate, correct action. Your training provides the exact response needed; remember it and be ready to use it.
Practiced skills save lives
Do not wait for an actual emergency to practice gas sharing. Incorporate out-of-air drills into your regular training dives.
Recognizing the situation
Know your own gas consumption and monitor your gauge frequently. If you experience difficulty breathing or a significant drop in pressure, act immediately.
If you run out of air, signal your buddy instantly. Panic is your biggest enemy; control your breathing and follow the protocol.
Sharing air
Accept the alternate source from your buddy or offer your own as trained. Maintain contact during the entire process, ensuring both divers remain stable.
Begin a controlled ascent together. Do not rush; monitor your combined depth and air availability carefully.
Post-ascent actions
Once at the surface, stay together and exit the water safely. Inform the dive boat or shore team about the incident immediately.
Discuss the cause of the out-of-air situation with your buddy to ensure it is addressed and understood before the next dive.
Dive-day checklist
Gas-sharing preparation
- Check your equipment before entry
- Verify buddy’s alternate air source position
- Monitor gauge frequently during the dive
- Practice gas-sharing drills periodically
- Stay within buddy reach
General guidance only. Follow your training, the dive operator’s procedures, and each manufacturer’s current instructions.
Ask the dive guide
Personal guidance for your next dive
Describe a dive scenario or an equipment-care question. The guide answers in your language and points you to relevant journal articles.
General educational guidance only. It is not medical advice, emergency instruction or a replacement for training, certification, manufacturer instructions, your operator's briefing or your dive plan.