To reduce the risk of Decompression Sickness (DCS) while diving with nitrox, what should you consider?

Using a breathing mixture that contains a higher percentage of oxygen, such as nitrox, allows divers to reduce the proportion of nitrogen they absorb during a dive. Since nitrogen is a primary factor contributing to Decompression Sickness (DCS), it's essential to understand that nitrox has a lower nitrogen content compared to standard air. This enables divers to minimize their overall nitrogen exposure, which consequently reduces the risk of DCS.

In planning a dive with nitrox, divers should always consider the effective utilization of the gas blend they're using, incorporating appropriate dive tables or computers that reflect the reduced nitrogen loading associated with nitrox. Diving with nitrox generally allows for extended bottom times and shorter surface intervals when compared to air, assuming the dive is managed correctly within the recommended limits for the specific nitrox mix being used.