What precautions should be taken when diving in cold water?

When diving in cold water, it is essential to limit dive duration and use appropriate thermal protection to prevent hypothermia and ensure diver safety. Cold water can cause rapid heat loss, which can impair physical performance and cognitive function, potentially leading to diving accidents. Using thermal protection, such as drysuits or properly insulated wetsuits, helps retain body heat.

Limiting the time spent in cold water further minimizes the risk of hypothermia, as prolonged exposure can lead to serious health issues. By understanding the effects of cold water on the body, divers can make informed decisions regarding their dive plans, equipment choices, and time frames in cold environments. This comprehensive approach helps to ensure a safe and enjoyable diving experience.

The option suggesting the use of only wetsuits may not provide adequate thermal protection in extremely cold conditions, and increasing dive depth does not effectively mitigate cold exposure; rather, it could worsen the situation if hypothermia occurs. Avoiding diving altogether is unnecessary when proper precautions, such as those outlined in the correct answer, are taken.