Why is it important for divers to perform a safety stop after ascending?

Performing a safety stop after ascending is crucial for preventing decompression sickness, also known as "the bends." During a dive, as a diver goes deeper, the pressure increases, allowing more nitrogen from the air we breathe to dissolve in the body tissues. When a diver ascends too quickly, the decreased pressure causes this nitrogen to come out of solution too rapidly, forming bubbles that can lead to various health issues, including decompression sickness.

A safety stop typically involves pausing at a depth of around 15 to 20 feet (5 to 6 meters) for a few minutes, which allows the dissolved nitrogen to be released more gradually, reducing the risk of bubbles forming and causing harm. This practice is a critical safety measure for divers, especially those diving at greater depths or for longer durations, ensuring a safer return to the surface.