What should a dive leader prioritize when faced with a panicking diver?

When faced with a panicking diver, the dive leader should prioritize addressing the diver's panic immediately. Panic can lead to dangerous situations underwater, not only for the panicking diver but also for others in the vicinity. By addressing the issue right away, the dive leader can help stabilize the diver’s emotional state, which is critical for ensuring safety during the dive.

In such scenarios, providing immediate reassurance and guidance can help the diver regain control over their situation. This might involve establishing eye contact, speaking calmly, and assisting the diver to focus on their breathing to promote relaxation. Once the diver feels more secure, further steps toward safety can be taken, whether that is ascending together or navigating to a safe area.

Ensuring others remain calm is also important, but it is secondary to addressing the immediate issue of the panicking diver. If the panicking diver is not stabilized first, keeping others calm might not be effective, as their safety could quickly become jeopardized. Similarly, quickly retrieving the diver or encouraging them to ascend without first addressing their panic could lead to adverse outcomes. Taking the time to calm the diver provides a foundation for all subsequent actions to ensure everyone's safety during the dive.