Safety in the world under water

Basic rules of diving

05.05.2026

Instructions on diving behavior, safety tips, and advice on protecting plant and animal life can be effectively summarized into a few basic rules that every diver—whether beginner or professional—should follow in order to make dives as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Should you dive alone, and is a backup regulator necessary?

Dives should always be conducted in pairs at a minimum. The dive buddy is a trusted partner on whom one can rely 100 percent in an emergency.
The buddy helps in case of difficulties in the water, air shortages, or health problems. A second regulator (octopus) is standard in recreational diving.
It increases safety if the primary regulator fails or if a dive partner needs air.

Why is boot Düsseldorf worth attending for beginners?

boot Düsseldorf offers beginners a comprehensive introduction to the world of diving. As the world’s largest yacht and water sports trade fair, it brings together diving schools, equipment, current trends, and expert knowledge about recreational diving in one place.

• Insights into the basics of diving and different diving styles
• Opportunities to compare equipment such as regulators, dive computers, and wetsuits
• Personal advice from experienced diving instructors and experts
• Inspiration for getting started and for the next training steps (e.g. Open Water Diver)

For new divers in particular, the trade fair is an ideal platform to build basic knowledge, make first contacts with diving schools, and prepare safely for entering the sport.

Free ticket for boot 2027 Anyone who starts or completes a diving course in 2026 will receive a free day ticket. All information about the promotion can be found here.

Can you go diving if you have a cold, are feeling unwell, or are physically exhausted?

With colds, blocked sinuses can lead to pain and barotrauma, and even the use of nasal spray is not a safe solution.
Likewise, you should only dive when you truly feel healthy and fit.
After consuming alcohol, illness, lack of sleep, or heavy physical exertion, diving should be avoided, as the body is then not optimally able to cope with stress.

Why is pressure equalization important?

Pressure equalization must be carried out early and regularly.
If it does not work, you should ascend slightly and try again. Forcing it can lead to injuries.

Do beginners have to perform decompression dives?

Beginners dive exclusively within no-decompression limits.
Decompression dives are only intended for specially trained divers.

How do exertion and cold water affect diving?

Heavy exertion and cold water increase stress on the body and can shorten no-decompression limits. In such cases, the dive should be ended earlier or planned more conservatively.

Is it allowed to touch animals or plants underwater?

Underwater animals and plants should not be touched. This protects the environment and prevents dangerous situations caused by poisonous or defensive animals.

Why do you perform a safety stop?

At the end of a dive, a safety stop of about 3 minutes at a depth of 5 meters should be carried out. This provides additional safety and reduces the risk of decompression sickness.

How should you ascend?

You should ascend slowly and in a controlled manner, as ascending too quickly increases the risk of barotrauma or decompression problems.
You must continue breathing normally at all times, as holding your breath can lead to a dangerous overexpansion of the lungs.
In addition, you should look upwards and around while ascending in order to detect boats, other divers, and obstacles early on.

Are there fixed rules for diving breaks?

The earlier rule of “one day off per week” no longer applies. Today, planning is done individually. Dive computers calculate the nitrogen load in the body and help determine safe surface intervals.

Why are you not allowed to fly immediately after diving?

After diving, the body needs to eliminate nitrogen and adapt to the surrounding pressure. Flying too soon increases the risk of decompression sickness.