SDI Open Water Scuba Diver Practice Exam

In the scenario where you cannot reunite with a missing buddy, what is the best course of action?

1. Search the surrounding area thoroughly

2. Continue your dive

3. None of the above

4. Signal for help from other divers

The correct answer is: None of the above

In a scenario where you cannot reunite with a missing buddy, it is crucial to prioritize safety and follow established procedures for dealing with such situations. Continuing the dive is not advisable because it increases the risk for both you and your missing buddy, making it harder to locate them and potentially placing you in a dangerous situation. Thoroughly searching the area might seem like a proactive approach, but it can also be ineffective and time-consuming, particularly if you are diving in a larger body of water. This could lead to disorientation, increased stress, and potentially increased risk of your own safety. The best course of action would be to signal for help from other divers. This allows for a coordinated and collective effort to search for the missing diver while keeping everyone safe. It’s important to operate as a team in such situations, as more people can contribute to a more effective search and help maintain communication throughout the process. Therefore, the safest option acknowledges that an individual search is not viable and emphasizes the importance of teamwork and signaling for assistance from others nearby.