Name one way to avoid decompression sickness while diving.

Ascending slowly and making an appropriate safety stop is crucial for avoiding decompression sickness, also known as "the bends." When divers spend time at depths, dissolved nitrogen accumulates in their bodies. If a diver ascends too quickly, the rapid decrease in pressure can cause nitrogen to come out of solution and form bubbles in body tissues. These bubbles can lead to various symptoms, ranging from mild to life-threatening.

By ascending slowly, divers allow the nitrogen that has been absorbed into their bodies to be expelled safely and gradually. The safety stop, typically performed at a depth of around 15 to 20 feet for a few minutes, provides additional time for nitrogen to be released from the body, significantly reducing the risk of decompression sickness. This practice aligns with safe diving protocols and guidelines established by diving organizations.