What is the first step to take when you spot a diver in distress?

The first step when spotting a diver in distress is to assess the situation and ensure your own safety before proceeding. This is crucial because, in any rescue scenario, the rescuer must be safe to assist others effectively. By evaluating the conditions, you can determine if it is safe to enter the water, whether there are any hazards, and how best to approach the situation.

Ensuring your safety helps to prevent becoming another victim; a rescuer who is incapacitated cannot help anyone. This assessment may include looking for signs of the distressed diver's condition, understanding the surrounding environment (like currents or waves), and if needed, calling for additional help or resources before intervening. Only after ensuring your safety and evaluating the situation should you assist the distressed diver. This step is fundamental in rescue scenarios as a hasty action without this consideration could lead to a breakdown in rescue efforts.