Scuba Signs – Command Signals
The most commonly used scuba signs are the command signals. These are “command” signals because these signals explicitly demand a response – either an affirmation of the command signals or an alternate sign.
“OK”
This is the primary team check and status sign. The expected return signal from the teammate(s) is an “OK” sign.
Usage example:
Signaler: “Are you OK?”
Receiver(s): “I am OK”
A “No” sign or a non response tells the Signaler that there is an issue. Unless the issue is resolved and the entire team signals “OK”, the dive must be aborted.
“End of Dive / Ascend”
Alternately known as “Thumbs”, this signal is a hard termination of the dive. In an overhead environment, this means that the signaler is telling the team to exit. In open water, this means that the signaler is telling the team to ascend.
Usage example:
Signaler: “End of Dive.”
Receiver(s): “End of Dive.”
In an overhead environment, there is no question on the “End of Dive” signal. “Anyone can call (terminate) a dive at any time for any reason,” and the signal must be respected.
“Hold”
The “hold” scuba sign tells the diver to maintain position and do not move. This is useful signal especially when a teammate is entangled and you need to resolve the issue.
Usage example:
Signaler: “Hold.”
Receiver(s): “Hold.” – receiver does not move
Signaler: “OK”
Reciever(s): “OK” – receiver(s) are free to move.
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