Why should divers monitor their air consumption?

Monitoring air consumption is critical for managing remaining time underwater effectively. By keeping track of how much air is left and determining the rate of consumption, divers can make informed decisions about their dive, including when to start ascending and how to handle unexpected situations. This practice helps ensure both safety and enjoyment during the dive, as divers can plan their dives to avoid running out of air unexpectedly.

While maximizing exploration time may seem like a reasonable consideration, it is secondary to the paramount importance of safety in diving. Impressing fellow divers and avoiding equipment wear are not primary reasons for monitoring air; they are ancillary considerations that do not relate to the fundamental necessity of ensuring adequate air supply for a safe return to the surface. Understanding and managing air consumption is essential for any dive and contributes significantly to overall dive safety.