What does the acronym 'R.E.D.' signify in response to diving emergencies?

The acronym 'R.E.D.' stands for Recognize, Evaluate, Decide, which is a critical process in responding to diving emergencies. Recognizing a potential problem or emergency is the first step, as this allows a diver to be aware of the situation they are facing. After recognizing the issue, the next step is to evaluate the situation, which involves assessing the severity of the emergency and determining the best course of action based on the available information. Finally, the diver must decide how to respond effectively, whether that means signaling to a buddy, executing an emergency ascent, or taking other necessary actions. This structured approach helps divers maintain a clear and logical thought process in high-pressure situations, ultimately enhancing safety and response effectiveness.