Which of the following is a cause of facemask or body squeeze related to trapped air?

• A. Unequal pressure in the face mask
• B. Worn gloves
• C. Air trapped in dry suit
• D. Depth sensation

Answer: (C)

Air trapped in a dry suit can cause body squeeze because as you descend, the surrounding water pressure increases and compresses that trapped air. The shrinking air pocket pulls the suit tighter against the diver’s body, squeezing chest, abdomen, and limbs and making movement and buoyancy control uncomfortable. This is different from mask squeeze, which comes from air trapped in the face mask being compressed with depth and pressing on the face. Worn gloves, worn gear, or a sensation of depth alone don’t involve trapped air causing a squeeze. To prevent this, vent the suit’s air to keep pockets from forming, and manage the suit’s inflation so you don’t have large trapped air volumes at depth.