Safety Stop — What It Is and Why It Matters
A safety stop is a voluntary 3-minute pause at approximately 5 meters (15 feet) during ascent on a no-decompression dive. While not mandatory in the strict decompression sense, it is considered standard practice by every major training agency and is recommended on virtually every dive deeper than 10 meters.
The safety stop serves as an additional buffer for off-gassing nitrogen before reaching the surface, where the pressure change is greatest. It also helps divers slow their ascent rate and establish neutral buoyancy before surfacing. Most dive computers display a safety stop countdown automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a safety stop actually required?
It is not mandatory in the decompression sense — you can ascend without one on a no-deco dive. However, all major training agencies (PADI, SSI, NAUI, BSAC) recommend a 3-minute safety stop on every dive deeper than 10 meters. It is standard practice and a smart habit.
What if I cannot hold a safety stop due to low air?
If you are genuinely low on air, it is safer to ascend directly at a controlled rate than to run out of air at depth while trying to complete a safety stop. Signal your buddy and ascend slowly. The risk of missing a safety stop on a no-deco dive is low compared to running out of air.
Affiliate Disclosure: DiveComputers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and eBay Partner Network. Links on this page may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.