A "dive buddy" is a partner with whom a scuba diver shares underwater experiences. This practice enhances safety, as divers can monitor each other for signs of distress and assist in emergencies. Having a dive buddy is essential for ensuring that both divers can enjoy their underwater adventure while looking out for one another. Dive buddies typically communicate using hand signals and follow the same dive plan, which includes depth, time, and specific points of interest. This teamwork fosters a sense of camaraderie and allows divers to explore the underwater world, such as coral reefs and shipwrecks, together while ensuring a safer experience.