During an alternate-air-source ascent, which hand is used to grasp the BC's deflation mechanism to control ascent rate?

During an alternate-air-source ascent, which hand is used to grasp the BC's deflation mechanism to control ascent rate?

• A. Both divers use the left hands to grasp the BC's deflation mechanism to control rate of ascent.
• B. Both divers use the right hands to grasp the BC's deflation mechanism to control rate of ascent.
• C. Each diver uses the opposite hand to the other; one uses left, the other uses right.
• D. They do not touch the deflation mechanism.

Answer: (A)

Controlling ascent during an alternate-air-source ascent comes from venting air from the buoyancy compensator to adjust buoyancy and keep the ascent slow and controlled. The deflation mechanism is operated with the left hand, and both divers use their left hands to grasp it so they can independently vent air as needed. This setup keeps the right hand free for maintaining grip on regulators or the alternate air source, while the left hand can quickly reduce buoyancy if the ascent starts to outpace the planned rate. Using the left hand for both divers also matches the BC layout, making access quick and consistent. If the deflator isn’t used, buoyancy can’t be managed effectively, leading to an uncontrolled ascent.

Controlling ascent during an alternate-air-source ascent comes from venting air from the buoyancy compensator to adjust buoyancy and keep the ascent slow and controlled. The deflation mechanism is operated with the left hand, and both divers use their left hands to grasp it so they can independently vent air as needed. This setup keeps the right hand free for maintaining grip on regulators or the alternate air source, while the left hand can quickly reduce buoyancy if the ascent starts to outpace the planned rate. Using the left hand for both divers also matches the BC layout, making access quick and consistent. If the deflator isn’t used, buoyancy can’t be managed effectively, leading to an uncontrolled ascent.