If the power inflation mechanism on your BCD sticks or freezes in the fully down position during a dive, what should you do?

If the power inflation mechanism on your buoyancy control device (BCD) is stuck in the fully down position during a dive, the appropriate response is to immediately disconnect the inflator hose and vent the BCD. This action is crucial because a stuck inflation mechanism can lead to uncontrollable buoyancy, potentially causing rapid ascents or difficulty managing your depth.

By disconnecting the inflator hose, you cut off the source of air that would otherwise continue to inflate the BCD, which could exacerbate the buoyancy issue. Venting the BCD allows you to control your buoyancy more effectively and ensures that you are able to descent safely or maintain a controlled ascent if necessary.

The potential risks of allowing the BCD to fill with air, taking no action based on the belief that the overpressure relief valve will manage the situation, or attempting to continue diving while dumping the BCD as needed could lead to unsafe diving conditions and puts you at risk of serious injury or decompression sickness. It’s vital to take immediate and corrective action to mitigate the risks associated with a malfunctioning BCD.