When should you check your buoyancy before a dive?

Checking your buoyancy after entering new dive environments is essential for ensuring safe and comfortable diving. Each dive site can present unique conditions influenced by factors like water temperature, salinity, and depth. These variables can significantly affect your buoyancy control, which is critical for maintaining safety and conserving energy underwater.

When you enter a new dive environment, conducting a buoyancy check allows you to assess how your body and equipment interact with the unfamiliar water conditions. This process typically involves using your BCD (buoyancy control device) to establish whether you're neutrally buoyant, which means you can hover in the water without ascending or descending.

By performing this check, you ensure that you are adequately prepared for the dive, allowing you to focus on exploring the underwater scenery rather than struggling with buoyancy issues. This practice enhances your overall dive experience and helps prevent potential hazards associated with poor buoyancy control.