What should you do if a diver becomes unconscious underwater?

If a diver becomes unconscious underwater, the most appropriate response is to attempt to safely recover the diver to the surface and initiate emergency procedures. This is critical because an unconscious diver is in a life-threatening situation; immediate action can be the difference between life and death.

By prioritizing recovery, you ensure that the unconscious diver receives the necessary assistance quickly. This includes providing oxygen and monitoring their condition once at the surface. Initiating emergency procedures enhances the chances of a successful rescue, which may involve alerting surface personnel or medical responders to be ready for immediate care once the diver is retrieved.

The other options are inadequate because they either delay vital assistance or expose the diver to further risk. Leaving a diver to come to on their own can lead to critical complications such as drowning or hypoxia. Continuing the dive disregards the urgency of the situation and could place others in jeopardy. Notifying other divers and waiting for help could also result in a delay in necessary action, leaving the unconscious diver without immediate care. Thus, rapid recovery and emergency response are essential in such scenarios.