What is a key reason for using hand signals underwater?

Using hand signals underwater is primarily important for reducing noise, as sound travels differently in water compared to air, and often can be muffled or distorted. This means that verbal communication becomes impractical for divers who are submerged. Hand signals serve as a reliable method to convey messages without the interference of water, thus ensuring clarity in communication between divers.

While emergency alerts are also a crucial aspect of underwater communication, the need for hand signals is broader and encompasses various situations including the daily operation of dives and enhancing safety protocols. Hand signals are also essential for communicating with surface teams, allowing divers to convey information without relying on sound. Improving diving performance can be indirectly impacted by effective communication, but that is a secondary reason compared to the fundamental necessity of overcoming the limitations of underwater noise. Therefore, the primary function of hand signals is to facilitate communication in a noise-reduced environment, making it a key reason for their use underwater.