Safety stop (5 m / 3 minutes)

A safety stop is a short pause you make before reaching the surface. It helps your body release nitrogen because it slows down the ascent process. Most divers perform this at 5 m for 3 minutes after every dive. You should do this during every recreational dive even if you feel fine.

I saw many beginners skip this in Koh Tao back in 2014. They often rush because they want to get to the boat quickly. This mistake increases your risk of decompression sickness significantly. Always check your computer for the exact depth requirements. If the current is strong, hold onto a mooring line or a rock. Do not let the surge pull you toward the surface before your time ends. Stay calm and breathe steadily while you wait.