What should a diver do if they experience a rapid ascent?

A diver who experiences a rapid ascent should ideally return to a deeper depth if possible and perform a safety stop. This is crucial because ascending too quickly can lead to decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends," which occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the body due to a sudden decrease in pressure.

Performing a safety stop allows the body more time to off-gas nitrogen, reducing the risk of these bubbles forming and causing injury. The safety stop typically involves pausing at a depth of around 15 to 20 feet for several minutes before completing the ascent to the surface. This practice is a standard safety procedure in diving that helps mitigate the risks associated with rapid descent and ascent.

While it may seem logical to surface immediately for help, this could exacerbate any potential problems caused by the rapid ascent and lead to complications due to shallow water blackout or other hazards. Continuing to ascend would not address the dangers posed by rapid ascent, and panicking can lead to poor decision-making and further risk. Thus, returning to a deeper depth to perform a safety stop is the most effective and safe response.