The ability to ditch your weights may mean the difference between life and death. In many diving fatalities, ditching weights may have changed the outcome.

Remember: In any underwater emergency, first try to solve the problem underwater. If that doesn't work, get positively buoyant and go to the surface.

STEP 1: POSITION IT

Here's a good rule to follow: Gear up as if you're going to have to ditch your weights on every dive. Make sure the area(s) around your weights are clear, paying attention to hooks, hoses, gauges, straps or anything else that would impede or snag released weights.

STEP 2: RELEASE IT

Practice releasing your weights. With a belt, the quick-draw is one method. Slap your hands against your hips, then slide them up to the belt and forward until they reach the buckle. This ensures you’ll find the buckle even if it has shifted away from center. Now, simply release it.

STEP 3: DROP IT

Once you’ve released the belt, pull it completely away from your body, and let it go. If possible, check for other divers below you in the water-before dropping your belt. In an emergency, it may be impractical to do this.