buddysukellus

Buddysukellus, the Finnish term for buddy diving, is a standard practice in scuba diving in which two divers pair up to monitor each other’s safety and provide assistance in an emergency. The buddy system emphasizes communication, mutual monitoring, and the ability to respond quickly to problems such as equipment failure, entanglement, or a low air supply.

Before the dive, the pair conducts a brief plan covering depth, time, route, air reserves, and contingencies, and agrees on signals and responsibilities. During descent and ascent the buddies stay within proximity, maintain eye contact, and continuously check each other’s equipment, buoyancy, and air status. Common hand signals are used to convey messages; divers practice drills for potential emergencies.

If a problem arises, the buddy assists by sharing air via an alternate regulator or a spare air source and by aiding with buoyancy control and the exit. Emergency procedures such as air-sharing, controlled ascents, and entanglement management are taught in most recreational training programs. The practice relies on proper training, compatible gear, and timely communication; it does not replace personal responsibility for one's own dive.

Equipment and training: The buddy pair typically uses standard scuba gear equipped with an alternate air source and a surface signaling device. Many agencies require pre-dive buddy checks (often summarized as BWRAF). Buddies are advised to discontinue the dive if they cannot maintain contact or agreement on the plan. In professional or technical diving, solo diving can be performed but requires specialized training.