The single most important thing when providing assistance to a panicked diver on the surface is:

When providing assistance to a panicked diver, the foremost priority is to ensure one's own safety. If a rescuer puts themselves in jeopardy, they may become unable to assist the panicked diver effectively, potentially leading to two individuals in distress instead of one. Therefore, maintaining personal safety allows the rescuer to stay in a position to help, assess the situation, and implement a rescue plan without increasing the risk to both parties.

Establishing positive buoyancy, maintaining eye contact, and approaching from behind are useful tactics during a rescue operation, but they must be considered within the broader context of the rescuer’s safety. If a rescuer is in danger while attempting these tactics, they compromise their ability to provide help effectively. Thus, ensuring personal safety is paramount in any rescue scenario.