COMMUNICATION tHAND SIGNALS, LIGHT SIGNALS, AND writing are all common means of communicating in an overhead environment when visibility is intact. In the event of visibility loss, divers must resort to touch contact in order to communicate with each other. Many risks, stresses, and even fatalities are the result of divers who misunderstand one another or communicate inaccurate information. Divers must take efficient communication seriously in order to preserve team unity, safety, and diving fun.
Hand signals
In close quarters with good visibility, communication between divers is typically uncomplicated. When divers are close to each other, hand signals are the most common method of communication. For important or detailed communication, however, divers may want to consider writing on an underwater slate or a set of wetnotes, as this is more precise and leaves
less room for confusion. Nonetheless, familiarity with hand signals allows for quick communication at close to moderate distances and is an important element of safe diving. The following are the most common hand signals.
Command signals
Command signals are signals that require a response. There are three command signals:
1. OK
The use of the OK signal does not vary from its known open water application. Like all other command signals, the OK sign must be returned, either with an affirmation or an indication of a problem. Remember, if divers are having a problem, it is their responsibility to inform other team members. If other divers are having a problem, then they can use that OK query as an opportunity to convey their problem.
The OK signal can be communicated either by hand or with a light drawing a circle.
PHOTO KIRILL EGOROV May 2023 · Quest
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