What is a common cause of asphyxia in SCUBA diving?

Running out of air is a common cause of asphyxia in SCUBA diving because divers rely on their air supply to breathe underwater. When a diver depletes their tank of breathable air, they can quickly become unable to obtain oxygen, leading to asphyxia. This situation can arise due to poor planning, underestimating air consumption rates, or equipment failure.

Asphyxia occurs when the body does not receive enough oxygen, and this can lead to loss of consciousness and potentially fatal outcomes. It highlights the importance of monitoring air supply and maintaining awareness of one's environment while diving. Proper training emphasizes the need for divers to regularly check their air supply and to have contingency plans in case of an emergency, such as having an alternate air source or adhering to safe diving practices.

Understanding this risk underscores the critical need for divers to be trained in safe diving practices, including the importance of managing their air consumption effectively during dives.