Remember all the elements of a dive plan? Here's a checklist to use before every dive.

OBJECTIVE

Even if you are both sightseers, you may be surprised how much faster or slower your new buddy will want to go. What’s the pace, and who’s going to set it?

CONDITIONS

What seems like a high surge to one diver may be no big deal to another. Are you both comfortable with the conditions?

EQUIPMENT

Where is your buddy’s BC inflator, alternate air, weight release, etc.? How quickly a buddy who is a stranger to you figures out your equipment is an indication of how experienced he is.

READ MORE: Scuba Hand Signals Every Diver Should Know

COMMUNICATION

Do you both use the same hand signals?

LOST BUDDY PROCEDURE

A not-so-subtle warning to your buddy not to ditch you.

EMERGENCY SKILLS

Reviewing what to do in the event of low air, entanglement, etc. again indicates your buddy’s skill level.

TIME, DEPTH, AIR LIMITS

You both have to read from the same sheet of music.

GO OR NO-GO

The moment of truth. Either diver has an absolute right to back out. You should if you don’t feel comfortable with your new buddy.