What can help divers avoid decompression sickness during longer dives?

To minimize the risk of decompression sickness during longer dives, employing strategies that include surface intervals, tank size considerations, and the use of Nitrox mixtures is vital.

Using surface intervals allows divers to off-gas excess nitrogen absorbed during the dive before making ascents or heading into subsequent dives. These pauses in diving help the body eliminate nitrogen safely from the tissues, thus reducing the likelihood of decompression sickness.

Tank size is also important, as it influences the amount of gas a diver can carry. A larger tank allows for longer dive durations, provided the dive is planned and executed following safe practices. This can enable divers to optimize their ascent profiles and surface intervals.

Nitrox mixtures, particularly those with higher oxygen content and lower nitrogen content than air, can effectively reduce nitrogen uptake at given depths. By breathing a gas mixture that contains a higher percentage of oxygen, divers absorb less nitrogen, which in turn decreases the risk of decompression sickness during and after the dive.

In summary, combining all these factors—managing surface intervals, selecting appropriate tank sizes, and utilizing Nitrox mixtures—provides divers with comprehensive strategies to minimize their chances of experiencing decompression sickness during extended dives.