How often should divers practice emergency drills?

Regular practice of emergency drills, ideally before each dive operation, is crucial for ensuring the safety of divers. This frequency allows divers to maintain their skills and stay familiar with the procedures they need to follow in case of an emergency. With the underwater environment being unpredictable, regular drills help divers respond quickly and efficiently to unforeseen situations, significantly enhancing their readiness and safety.

In addition, regularly practicing these drills helps build team cohesion and communication among dive teams. Each diver must understand their role within the emergency response plan, and frequent training reinforces this understanding and builds confidence.

Other suggested frequencies, such as conducting drills once a year, might not adequately prepare divers for emergencies due to the potential for skill degradation. Additionally, limiting practice to only when new equipment is introduced could hinder readiness because divers may encounter various scenarios that require recalling emergency procedures. Conducting drills after every three dives may also be insufficient, as it does not maintain the consistent familiarity needed to ensure safety in different diving conditions.