What technique is referred to as "rescue breathing" in diving?

"Rescue breathing" refers specifically to a lifesaving technique used for individuals who are not breathing. In the context of diving, this technique becomes critical when a diver suffers from drowning or experiences a lack of oxygen. The purpose of rescue breathing is to provide artificial respiration to these individuals, effectively supplying oxygen to the lungs until professional medical assistance can be obtained or until normal breathing resumes.

Knowing how to perform rescue breathing is an essential skill for divers, as it can mean the difference between life and death in emergency situations where a diver loses consciousness or stops breathing due to an underwater incident. Recognizing the signs of respiratory failure and responding with appropriate rescue breathing techniques is part of a diver’s safety training, underscoring the importance of preparedness in the sport.

The other options focus on different contexts and do not accurately describe the function of rescue breathing. Signaling for help, for example, is important in emergencies but does not involve the provision of oxygen. Preventing dehydration underwater relates to maintaining hydration rather than addressing breathing issues. Finally, exercises to improve lung capacity are important for divers' training but are not the same as the lifesaving actions taken during a respiratory emergency.