Kelp, fishing line, nets, and rope may create an entanglement during a dive. The initial entanglement is usually very minor, but can worsen if you try to struggle yourself free.

Gear entanglements usually occur around the cylinder valve and fin straps. If you become entangled, signal to your buddy that something is wrong and point to the entanglement. You and your buddy should then work together to free the entanglement.

If you cannot pull the entanglement free, it may be necessary to cut it with a dive knife. This is rarely necessary, and most divers never have to use their knife for entanglements. Regardless, a dive knife should be carried on all dives for this purpose.