Being Understood, not just Transmitting

Effective communication is vital for successful scuba diving, especially in mixed teams. During a dive, misunderstandings arose when a group leader signaled a direction that was interpreted differently due to cultural differences. Debriefing afterward revealed the importance of ensuring everyone understands the message. To communicate effectively underwater or on the surface, divers should break their messages into smaller parts and check for understanding. Non-verbal cues, pauses, and closed-loop communications help ensure that the intent is clear and actions align.