health_and_safety

Diving Safety Guidelines

Essential information for safe diving

infoImportant: These are general guidelines. Always follow your training, dive computer, and instructor recommendations.

infoCalculations and indicators in Nautiq are estimates and may differ from your dive computer. Always follow your computer and instructor training.

schedule

Surface Interval

≥ 1 hour

2–3 hours recommended between dives

flight

Flying After Diving

18-24 hours

Wait before flying

emergency

Emergency

DAN Hotline

Use your regional DAN hotline

schedule Surface Intervals

A surface interval is the time spent at the surface between dives. Proper surface intervals allow your body to off-gas absorbed nitrogen.

Minimum Recommendations:

  • check_circleBetween dives: Minimum 1 hour; 2–3 hours recommended (follow your dive computer)
  • check_circleBefore flying: Follow your computer/manufacturer; a conservative approach is 18–24 hours
  • check_circleAfter multiple dives: 24 hours before flying is commonly recommended
  • check_circleAfter decompression dives: 24–48 hours before flying

flight Flying After Diving

Flying too soon after diving can cause decompression sickness (DCS) because the reduced cabin pressure at altitude allows dissolved nitrogen to form bubbles.

warning Typical guidance (follow your computer/agency):

  • Single dive: Wait at least 12-18 hours
  • Multiple dives per day: Wait at least 18-24 hours
  • Multiple days of diving: Wait 24-48 hours
  • Decompression dives: Wait 48+ hours

info Commercial flights typically cruise at cabin pressures equivalent to 6,000-8,000 feet altitude.

rule Basic Diving Safety Rules

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Never dive alone

Always use the buddy system

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Plan your dive

Dive your plan - never exceed it

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Ascend slowly

No faster than 9 m / 30 ft per minute (≤ 6 m/min in last 5 m)

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Safety stop

~3 minutes at 5 m / 15 ft on most dives

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Check your equipment

Pre-dive safety check every time

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Stay within limits

Respect your training and certification

medical_services Decompression Sickness (DCS)

Decompression sickness occurs when dissolved gases (mainly nitrogen) form bubbles in tissues and blood. It can happen when ascending too quickly or flying too soon after diving.

warning Symptoms to Watch For:

•Joint or muscle pain
•Numbness or tingling
•Fatigue or weakness
•Dizziness or vertigo
•Difficulty breathing
•Chest pain
•Skin rash or itching
•Confusion or personality changes

emergency If you suspect DCS:

  1. 1. Seek immediate medical attention and contact local emergency services
  2. 2. Breathe 100% oxygen if available and trained to do so
  3. 3. Keep warm and hydrated (small sips if conscious)
  4. 4. Lie flat or in recovery position; avoid exertion
  5. 5. Do not re-descend; do not fly or go to altitude
  6. 6. Contact your regional DAN emergency hotline for guidance

call Emergency Contacts

DAN Emergency Hotline open_in_new

Find Your Regional Number →

24/7 Emergency diving accident assistance worldwide

Local Emergency Services

911 (US) / 112 (Europe) / Local Emergency Number

For immediate life-threatening situations

infoTip: Save these numbers in your phone before diving. Consider DAN membership for dive accident insurance.

library_books Additional Resources

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Divers Alert Network (DAN)

Dive safety research, education, and services

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PADI Dive Safety

Safety tips and guidelines

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DAN Health & Diving

Medical research and information

gavel Legal Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dive training, your dive computer, or medical advice. Always dive within your training limits and follow your certification agency’s guidance.

No Liability: Nautiq provides planning guidance and general safety information only. Nautiq and its creators accept no responsibility or liability for injuries, damages, losses, or accidents arising from diving activities or from use of this application.

Your Responsibility: You are solely responsible for your decisions and safety while diving. Verify all plans against your dive computer and training. Use appropriate, well-maintained equipment and seek advice from qualified dive professionals or a diving medicine specialist when unsure.

By using this application and information, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this disclaimer and agree to assume all risks associated with scuba diving activities.

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