What should divers monitor closely during decompression dives?

Monitoring various factors during decompression dives is crucial to ensure safety and mitigate risks associated with decompression sickness. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to safety by identifying that all the listed factors—environmental conditions, buddy locations, and gas levels—are significant and must be monitored closely.

Environmental conditions, such as current, visibility, and water temperature, can affect dive safety and the ability to perform necessary decompression stops. Adverse environmental factors may lead to unexpected changes in dive plans or can impede the ability to ascend safely.

Buddy locations are also critical in decompression diving. Divers need to maintain awareness of their dive partners to ensure effective communication and mutual support during the decompression phase. Should an emergency arise, being aware of each other’s positions can facilitate prompt assistance.

Gas levels are paramount as they directly influence a diver's ability to complete the dive and manage ascent. Keeping track of the remaining gas supply is essential to ensure that divers have adequate breathing gas for the entire dive, including ascent and required decompression stops.

Overall, monitoring these factors collectively ensures a safer diving experience and promotes adherence to decompression protocols, reinforcing the idea that divers must be vigilant regarding multiple aspects of their diving environment and dive buddy.