Which statement best describes the standby diver?

• A. The standby diver is never required to assist
• B. The standby diver acts as supervisor
• C. The standby diver paces the dive
• D. The standby diver rescues or assists the working diver in an emergency

Answer: (D)

Standby divers are there to respond immediately when the working diver encounters trouble. Their primary function is to be ready to rescue or assist in an emergency, which means staying close enough to intervene quickly, monitoring the situation, and having access to the necessary equipment and air supply to help the other diver reach safety. This readiness is why the standby diver’s role is defined by being able to take action to protect the crew member under stress, whether that means guiding an ascent, supplying air through a backup line, helping remove gear, or aiding in disentanglement.

This is why the other ideas don’t fit: the standby diver is not simply there to supervise; they’re not tasked with pacing the dive, and they are not guaranteed never to assist. The focus is on rapid, competent intervention to rescue or aid the working diver in an emergency.