What is the correct action to take if only a 20-minute stop is reached in water?

Reaching only a 20-minute stop in water during a dive signifies the importance of decompression stops in preventing decompression sickness. It is crucial to ascend to the 20-foot depth as quickly as possible to reduce the pressure on the body, allowing nitrogen absorption to be managed more effectively.

By getting to 20 feet, divers can utilize the benefits of an appropriate decompression stop, which helps facilitate the elimination of nitrogen from their tissues at a reduced pressure. This depth allows for a safer and more controlled off-gassing process.

Remaining at the surface or ascending rapidly could pose significant risks, including the possibility of experiencing symptoms of decompression sickness, which can result from not allowing adequate time for the body to release dissolved gases safely. Thus, making a swift descent to a depth where a decompression stop can be honored is essential for ensuring safety following a dive.