What must be prioritized when deciding to initiate a rescue?

When deciding to initiate a rescue, the foremost priority must be the safety of both the rescuer and the distressed diver. This is a fundamental principle in rescue operations, as attempting to perform a rescue without ensuring safety can lead to further complications, including additional injuries or fatalities.

If the rescuer does not maintain a focus on safety, they may become a victim themselves, which could complicate the situation and increase the risk to all parties involved. Therefore, assessing environmental conditions, the well-being of the distressed diver, and the rescuer's own physical and mental state are crucial steps before the rescue can proceed effectively.

Understanding the safety measures, such as proper entry and exit strategies and monitoring for potential dangers, ensures that the rescue team can act in a manner that minimizes risk, achieving the goal of bringing the distressed individual to safety without putting others in harm's way.