Which special skills are required before you dive with Nitrox?

Diving with Nitrox requires specific skills and knowledge to ensure safety and efficiency during the dive. One of the foundational skills is the correct analysis of cylinder content both in the field and at the blending station. This is essential because Nitrox can have varying oxygen content compared to regular air, and understanding the exact mix is critical for planning dives, calculating no-decompression limits, and avoiding oxygen toxicity.

When divers analyze their cylinder's gas content, they are confirming the percentage of oxygen and nitrogen in the mix. This analysis typically involves using an oxygen analyzer, which helps divers ensure that they are using the correct gas for their planned profiles. Failure to accurately identify the gas mix could lead to serious dive-related incidents, underscoring why this skill is vital.

The other options either do not pertain specifically to the use of Nitrox or do not relate directly to essential safety measures taken when using enriched air. For instance, the ability to carry multiple cylinders may be beneficial for some dive scenarios but does not pertain specifically to the skills needed for Nitrox diving. Similarly, buddy breathing is an outdated practice that is not relevant to Nitrox diving. Understanding cylinder content and managing gas mixes is, therefore, the critical skill required.