To minimize the risk of decompression sickness, divers should do what during ascent?

Including safety stops during ascent is essential for minimizing the risk of decompression sickness. When divers ascend, the pressure around them decreases, which can cause nitrogen that has been absorbed into their tissues under higher pressure to come out of solution and form bubbles. Safety stops allow divers to pause at certain depths for a specified duration, giving their bodies additional time to off-gas the nitrogen safely. This practice significantly reduces the likelihood of bubbles forming in the tissues or joints, which can lead to decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends."

Moreover, including safety stops is a standard precautionary measure in diving safety protocols. It serves as a buffer during ascent, thus making the process more gradual, which helps the body adapt to the changing pressure. This strategy is recommended as part of safe diving practices following any dive, regardless of depth or duration, in order to enhance divers' safety.