Surface swims can become tiring when the conditions are too harsh for a diver's abilities. If you notice that your buddy is having difficulty swimming at the surface, you should provide assistance to aid the diver during the swim.

Your instructor will teach you several tired diver tows during the confined and open water sessions. These include the tank valve tow, do-si-do tow, and push tow.

To use the tank valve tow, pull your buddy's tank valve as you swim on your side or back. This tow is very effective because your buddy can still help you swim during the tow. To use the do-si-do tow, link your arm with your buddy's as you swim on your side. To use the push tow, place your buddy's fins on your shoulders as you swim on your stomach.