Which recommended preventive measure aids in reducing the likelihood of decompression sickness?

Proper ascent times and stops are crucial in reducing the likelihood of decompression sickness, also known as "the bends." When divers ascend too quickly, nitrogen that has been absorbed into their body tissues while diving can come out of solution too rapidly. This can lead to the formation of nitrogen bubbles within the body, resulting in decompression sickness. By adhering to recommended ascent rates and making safety stops at designated depths during the ascent, divers allow more time for the nitrogen to be safely eliminated from their bodies through respiration. These practices help manage the pressure changes that occur as a diver ascends to the surface, significantly lowering the risk of developing decompression sickness.

Other preventive measures, such as immediate cold water immersion or surface swamping, do not have a direct correlation with decreasing the risk of decompression sickness. Similarly, increasing dive durations can actually increase the amount of nitrogen absorbed into the body, which could heighten the risk of decompression sickness if ascent protocols are not carefully followed.