How can divers best prepare to avoid decompression sickness?

To effectively avoid decompression sickness, divers should adhere to dive tables. Dive tables provide essential guidance on the maximum allowable depths and the time a diver can spend at those depths without needing to perform decompression stops during ascent. These tables take into account various factors, including the physiological effects of nitrogen absorption in the body while under pressure. By following the guidelines set forth in the dive tables, divers can plan their dives in a way that minimizes the risk of nitrogen bubbles forming in their tissues and bloodstream, which is the primary cause of decompression sickness.

Adherence to dive tables also includes accounting for multi-level dives, which may require adjustments based on depth and time spent at different levels. This level of preparation and understanding of the dive tables aids divers in making safe decisions during their underwater activities.