What is a dry rescue?

A dry rescue is a technique used in scuba diving to safely rescue a diver who is out of air and unable to surface on their own. It involves a rescuer approaching the distressed diver and providing them with a secondary air source, allowing the diver to breathe and ascend to the surface safely.

Here's a step-by-step explanation of how a dry rescue is typically performed:

1. Assessment: The rescuer determines if the distressed diver is out of air and needs assistance. This can be done by checking the diver's air gauge or pressure gauge, observing the diver's behavior (e.g., struggling to breathe or flailing their arms), or communicating with the diver through hand signals.

2. Approach: The rescuer cautiously approaches the distressed diver, maintaining a safe distance to avoid entanglement. Proper buoyancy control is crucial to ensure the rescuer can reach the diver effectively without causing either diver to sink or lose control.

3. Buoyancy Assistance: If necessary, the rescuer may provide the distressed diver with buoyancy assistance to help them ascend. This can be achieved by using one's own buoyancy compensator device (BCD) or by attaching a spare buoyancy device to the diver.

4. Air Sharing: Once within reach, the rescuer establishes an air-sharing connection with the distressed diver. This is usually done using an octopus regulator, which is a secondary demand regulator attached to the rescuer's primary regulator. The rescuer passes the octopus regulator to the distressed diver, allowing them to breathe from it.

5. Ascent: While maintaining physical contact with the distressed diver, the rescuer guides them toward the surface. Both divers ascend at a slow, controlled rate to prevent decompression sickness (DCS).

6. Surface Support: Once at the surface, the rescuer assists the distressed diver in removing their scuba gear and getting into a stable position. The rescuer may need to provide additional support and care until help arrives.

7. Signal for Help: The rescuer signals for assistance from other divers or nearby boats to arrange for further medical attention or transportation.

It's important to note that dry rescues should only be performed by trained divers who are experienced in rescue techniques and have the necessary skills and equipment. Safety is paramount, and divers should never engage in risky situations beyond their training and capabilities.