What should be the first action if a diver becomes unconscious?

When a diver becomes unconscious, the immediate priority is to ensure their safety and stability. Maintaining the diver in their position on the surface is crucial because movement can lead to further complications, particularly if the diver is at risk of aspiration or if their airway is compromised. Keeping them in a stable position helps to facilitate any necessary rescue or first aid measures while minimizing the risk of injury or drowning.

Calling for assistance should ideally follow the initial action of maintaining the diver's position. While it is critical to seek help, if the diver is not stable in their current position, there may be a greater chance of further harm. Checking the diver's level of consciousness, although important for assessing the situation, can be secondary to ensuring they are not moving or at risk of sinking.

Starting to administer oxygen is also a crucial step but should come after ensuring the diver's immediate safety on the surface. Oxygen can be life-saving, but the unconscious diver must be in a secure position first to ensure effective treatment can occur without risk.