What should divers do to minimize the risk of an emergency?

Planning dives thoroughly is essential for minimizing the risk of an emergency because it allows divers to anticipate potential hazards and prepare for them accordingly. A thorough dive plan includes understanding the dive site, the conditions such as currents and visibility, the dive objectives, and contingencies for emergencies. It helps divers set clear guidelines regarding time, depth, and safety stops, which are crucial for preventing situations like decompression sickness.

In addition, a comprehensive plan involves knowing the capabilities of each diver and their equipment, which contributes to team coordination and communication. By having well-established protocols and understanding the environment, divers can significantly reduce the likelihood of facing unexpected challenges underwater.

The other options, while beneficial in certain contexts, do not provide the same level of overall preparedness as thorough planning. Relying solely on experienced partners, staying at the surface, or using minimal equipment does not account for the wide array of situational variables that could lead to emergencies.