What is the purpose of the buddy system in scuba diving?

The buddy system in scuba diving is fundamentally about enhancing safety and promoting a supportive environment for divers. By partnering with a buddy, each diver can monitor the other's air supply, movements, and overall well-being, ensuring that both are aware of potential hazards and can respond quickly to any emergency situations. This mutual oversight significantly increases safety; if one buddy encounters difficulties, the other is immediately available to assist, whether by providing air, helping control buoyancy, or guiding a return to the surface. This principle of teamwork not only fosters a sense of security but also encourages effective communication between divers, facilitating a safer diving experience overall.