How is a 'diver down' status communicated and maintained at the surface?

• A. Use a dive flag/woggle or other signals; maintain lookout and limit water exposure; coordinate with vessel crew.
• B. Shout the status only once.
• C. Use a light signal only at night.
• D. No signaling is required if the boat is close.

Answer: (A)

The essential idea is to make the diver’s presence in the water highly visible and continuously understood by nearby boats and people. Using a dive flag or other signaling devices, such as a surface marker buoy, provides a clear, lasting visual cue that divers are down. Keeping a dedicated lookout and limiting water exposure around the dive area helps ensure approaching vessels see the warning early and know to slow down or steer clear. Coordinating with the vessel crew ensures the boat’s movements are aligned with the dive plan, reducing the risk of contact with gear or divers.

Shouting the status only once can be missed in noise or wind, a light signal alone at night may not be seen during daytime or in rough conditions, and assuming no signaling is required if the boat is close ignores the need for ongoing awareness and safe separation for the divers.