PADI Open Water Diver Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

When a diver realizes they are out of air while close to their buddy, the appropriate action is to switch to their buddy's alternate air source. This method is effective because it allows the out-of-air diver to receive the air supply they need while remaining in close proximity to their buddy, who can assist them throughout the process. Using the alternate air source ensures that both divers can remain calm and focused, reducing the risk of panic or disorientation that might occur if one diver is suddenly without air.

This practice emphasizes the importance of buddy diving, where divers are trained to assist each other in emergencies. Training includes ensuring that both divers know how to safely share air equipment and execute the maneuver effectively.

While ascending directly to the surface might seem like a possible solution, it poses significant risks, such as lung expansion injuries due to rapid ascension and failure to manage buoyancy safely without adequate air. Signaling for help could be beneficial in certain contexts, but if the diver is close to their buddy, proactive measures like switching to an alternate air source is a more immediate solution. Attempting to breathe from a free-flowing regulator does not provide a reliable air source and can increase the chaos during an emergency situation, likely leading to further complications. Thus, the correct