Out of Air Emergencies
Emergency Swimming Ascent
The emergency swimming ascent is the safest method to use if you run out of air and your buddy is not close enough to provide you with air. The recommended maximum depth for this procedure is 60 feet, but ascents from greater depths may be possible depending on the diver's abilities.
To make an emergency swimming ascent, maintain an open airway by looking up and exhaling a continuous stream of bubbles. As you swim to the surface, vent air from your BCD as necessary to maintain a controlled ascent rate.
The air in your lungs will expand as you ascend. This will produce the sensation of an endless breath of air as you exhale.
The air in your cylinder will also expand, and additional breaths may become available. For this reason, keep the 2nd stage in your mouth and attempt to take a breath as you near the surface.
To make an emergency swimming ascent, maintain an open airway by looking up and exhaling a continuous stream of bubbles. As you swim to the surface, vent air from your BCD as necessary to maintain a controlled ascent rate.
The air in your lungs will expand as you ascend. This will produce the sensation of an endless breath of air as you exhale.
The air in your cylinder will also expand, and additional breaths may become available. For this reason, keep the 2nd stage in your mouth and attempt to take a breath as you near the surface.
