When should a diver begin to equalize the pressure in their ears?

Equalizing the pressure in the ears is an essential practice for divers to prevent discomfort and possible injury to the ear structures due to pressure changes while descending. Beginning to equalize during the descent, rather than waiting until discomfort occurs or reaching a certain depth, is crucial. As a diver descends, the pressure surrounding the body increases, which in turn affects the air-filled spaces in the ears. If equalization is not initiated early on, it can lead to greater pressure differences that result in pain or more severe complications, such as barotrauma.

Equalization techniques, such as the Valsalva maneuver or Toynbee maneuver, should be performed as necessary throughout the descent, particularly during the initial phase when the pressure changes are most significant. Waiting until the ears start to hurt, or until a specific depth is reached, would either increase the risk of discomfort or may not allow enough time to equalize effectively, leading to possible injury.