What is the recommended action if you experience an out-of-air emergency?

In an out-of-air emergency, signaling for help and sharing air with your buddy is the recommended action because it incorporates safe diving practices and emphasizes the importance of buddy assistance. When divers are properly trained, they are taught to dive with a buddy system, which is crucial in emergencies. If one diver runs low on air, signaling provides a clear communication of the emergency, allowing the buddy to respond quickly.

This approach ensures that both divers can handle the situation together. Sharing air allows the out-of-air diver to receive the necessary oxygen to ascend safely while preventing rapid ascents that can lead to decompression sickness or other complications. Using a buddy's alternate air source is also a standard emergency protocol trained in diver education, enhancing safety during such critical situations.