What is the main purpose of a dive log?

The main purpose of a dive log is to document dive details such as depth, time, conditions, equipment used, and any incidents. This meticulous recording is essential for multiple reasons. First, it helps divers keep track of their experiences and improves skills over time by reviewing past dives. Second, these logs serve as a personal safety record, providing critical information that can assist in identifying patterns that may lead to decompression sickness or other diving-related issues. Additionally, dive logs are often required for certification and can be invaluable in the event of an emergency or to analyze incidents that may occur during dives. Keeping a detailed log ensures that divers have an accurate account of their activities and can refer back to this information when needed, thus promoting safer and more informed diving practices.