What action should a diver take if there is a loss of buoyancy control due to equipment issues during ascent?

• A. Abort dive immediately without signaling.
• B. Ignore buoyancy and continue.
• C. Release all weights and ascend.
• D. Re-check buoyancy, adjust weights as needed, signal, and select a controlled ascent or dive abort if safety can't be maintained.

Answer: (D)

Losing buoyancy control during ascent requires a calm, methodical approach to regain control and choose a safe path to the surface. The best course is to re-check your buoyancy, adjust weights as needed to restore manageable ascent, signal your buddy or surface crew to keep everyone informed, and then execute a controlled ascent or dive abort if safety cannot be maintained.

Start by confirming your buoyancy and depth, then make careful, incremental adjustments—the right amount of air in or out of the BCD and only small weight tweaks if necessary. Clear signaling is essential so your buddy knows you’re handling a buoyancy issue and can assist or follow the plan. Finally, select a controlled ascent rate that you can manage safely, or, if the situation can’t be resolved with buoyancy adjustments, abort the dive and surface with your buddy.

This approach prevents rapid, uncontrolled ascents or dropping weights blindly, both of which can lead to injury or decompression issues.