What should a diver remember when navigating using a compass?

When navigating underwater using a compass, it is crucial to follow environmental markers. This involves noting significant features in the underwater landscape, such as large rocks, coral formations, or changes in the sea floor, which can help verify your heading and assist in navigation. Environmental markers serve as reference points, allowing divers to confirm that they are traveling in the intended direction. They add context to the compass readings and help divers avoid becoming disoriented in the often featureless underwater environment.

The importance of using environmental markers lies in the fact that while a compass provides directional guidance, it does not account for the dynamic nature of underwater currents or potential shifts in position. Being able to visually orient oneself with the surroundings is an essential part of safe and effective navigation during a dive.