What does the term "safety stop" mean in diving?

The term "safety stop" refers to a brief stop at a shallow depth during ascent, typically at around 15 to 20 feet (5 to 6 meters) for recreational divers. This practice is crucial for allowing excess nitrogen to be released from the body, which helps to reduce the risk of decompression sickness, commonly known as "the bends." By spending a few minutes at this depth, divers can ensure safer ascents and promote more gradual pressure equalization.

This process is an important safety measure and is widely recommended in diving training and practices to enhance a diver's safety during and after the dive. It underscores the significance of controlled ascents and proper dive practices to mitigate potential physiological issues related to changes in pressure.