What is a key factor in night dive safety?

Constant communication between buddies is a key factor in night dive safety because visibility is significantly reduced in low-light conditions. This reduced visibility can lead to a greater risk of becoming disoriented or separated from one another. Effective communication ensures that divers can maintain awareness of each other's locations and actions, which is crucial for safety. Using hand signals or lights, buddy teams can convey information about their status or any changes in the dive plan, helping to prevent potential incidents.

While proper equipment checks are vital, they alone do not address the challenges posed by darkness during a night dive. Similarly, high-intensity lights can enhance visibility but do not substitute for ensuring good communication. Staying on the surface, while potentially safe, does not fulfill the purpose of a night dive and limits the experience and training expected for divers in low visibility conditions. Thus, maintaining constant communication enhances the overall safety and enjoyment of the dive for all participants.