First of all, it is important to understand that all dives involve decompression, even those we call “no-decompression” dives. As every diver knows, our body tissues absorb and eliminate gases (nitrogen, for example) during the descent and ascent of every dive. In years past, the decompression from a non-decompression dive was satisfied by a slow, controlled ascent to the surface. A controlled ascent from every dive is crucial to assure proper elimination of absorbed gases in order to reduce the likelihood of decompression sickness (DCS). This brings up the importance of the safety stop in recreational scuba diving. Scuba diving safety stops are, as we know, brief pauses during the ascent from a scuba dive, primarily intended to reduce the risk of DCS. While not mandatory, they are strongly recommended for every dive and have become a standard part of safe dive planning… Click here to read the full article!
To Stop or Not To Stop – That is the Question – Dan Orr
