How can divers ensure the air they breathe is safe?

To ensure the air a diver breathes is safe, obtaining air from reliable dive shops is crucial. Reliable dive shops follow strict standards for air quality, including regular maintenance and certification of their compressors to ensure they are functioning correctly. They monitor their air supply for contaminants such as carbon monoxide, which can be harmful if inhaled.

Additionally, reputable dive shops conduct regular air quality testing to confirm that their air meets the required safety standards set forth by organizations like the Compressed Gas Association. This not only assures divers of the air's safety but also builds trust in the services provided by the shop.

In contrast, using air from any available compressor or filtering air before use can lead to risks if the equipment is not maintained properly or if contaminants exist in the original air supply. Likewise, checking the color of the air is not a reliable method for assessing air quality and safety, as air is colorless and any color seen could be misleading.