What should you do if you experience a runaway ascent?

If you experience a runaway ascent, exhaling continuously is crucial in controlling your ascent rate. The primary concern during a rapid ascent is the risk of pressure-related injuries, such as decompression sickness. By exhaling, you can reduce lung expansion due to decreasing pressure, which helps to prevent lung over-expansion injuries.

Additionally, exhaling allows you to maintain neutral buoyancy, which is essential while trying to stabilize your ascent. The act of exhaling can help you slow down your ascent, giving you time to assess your situation and take appropriate measures to regain control.

It's important to handle the situation calmly and not to attempt rapid descents, as trying to descend quickly can lead to disorientation or additional emergencies. Focusing on controlled exhalation is the most effective method to manage a runaway ascent.