What is a common practice to enhance safety when diving?

Regularly practicing emergency procedures is a crucial practice for enhancing safety when diving. This ensures that divers are well-prepared to handle unexpected situations such as equipment failure, sudden changes in water conditions, or health-related emergencies. By rehearsing these procedures, divers build familiarity and confidence, allowing them to respond quickly and effectively when required. This practice fosters communication and situational awareness among dive teams, reducing panic and improving overall safety in the water.

In contrast, the other options represent practices that could jeopardize a diver's safety. Solo diving without any backup removes the critical support system provided by a buddy, significantly increasing risks in the event of an emergency. Diving without pre-dive discussions could lead to misunderstandings about dive plans and objectives, which can compromise safety. Ignoring environmental conditions, such as current strength, weather changes, and water visibility, can result in dangerous situations that a diver may not be prepared to handle. Therefore, regular practice of emergency procedures stands out as a key practice for maintaining safety while diving.