What should you do if you experience a free-flowing regulator?

Experiencing a free-flowing regulator is a critical situation that requires immediate action to ensure your safety. The correct response is to switch to your alternate air source and surface if necessary. When a regulator is free-flowing, it can waste valuable air and result in potentially dangerous situations if not addressed swiftly. By switching to your alternate air source, you secure a reliable supply of air, allowing you to maintain control of your buoyancy and safely manage your ascent if needed.

Using your alternate air source also allows you to deal with the malfunction without further complicating the situation. In emergency scenarios underwater, it is essential to prioritize safety and avert any risks that could arise from trying to fix equipment malfunctions in an environment where visibility and air supply may be compromised.

While signaling to your buddy for assistance is important and essential during a dive, this action should complement your immediate response rather than be the primary course of action when encountering a free-flowing regulator. Attempting to fix equipment underwater can lead to more serious issues, as you might not be able to manage buoyancy or navigate effectively, which can heighten risks. Continuing to dive without addressing the problem diverts attention from the malfunction and can result in dangerous situations for yourself and your dive buddy.