What should a diver do if they encounter a problem with their equipment underwater?

When a diver encounters a problem with their equipment underwater, the best course of action is to signal the buddy and attempt to resolve the issue. This approach emphasizes the importance of teamwork and communication in diving. By signaling a buddy, divers ensure that they have support in assessing the problem and deciding on the best course of action. It also ensures that both divers are aware of the situation, which enhances safety.

Attempting to resolve equipment issues independently, without involving a buddy, can lead to risks if the diver becomes too focused on the problem instead of maintaining awareness of their surroundings. Surfaces without proper signaling or in emergency situations can lead to additional dangers, such as coming up too quickly or being unprepared for surface conditions. Therefore, maintaining a buddy system is critical in scuba diving for safety and problem resolution.