In a deep water out of air emergency, if your buddy is not close enough, what is the best response?

In a deep water out of air emergency, performing a controlled swimming ascent is the most effective response. When you are low on air, it's crucial to reach the surface safely while managing your buoyancy and avoiding rapid ascents, which can lead to decompression illness. A controlled ascent allows you to maintain awareness of your surroundings, check for potential hazards, and use proper buoyancy techniques.

This approach also underscores the importance of ascending slowly—typically at a rate of no faster than 18 meters (60 feet) per minute—and making safety stops as necessary to allow any nitrogen accumulated in your body to safely off-gas. While signaling for assistance and waiting for help can be vital strategies in certain situations, they can also lead to greater risks. Remaining submerged without air, especially at depth, can lead to panic and further complications. Lastly, descending to find your buddy is not appropriate in this scenario, as it may result in deeper depths and further air depletion, thereby increasing the risk of an out-of-air situation for yourself.

Thus, controlled swimming ascent is the best response, allowing you to prioritize your safety while also taking steps to ensure proper ascent dynamics.