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Which of the following is critical to avoid during a dive to prevent overexertion?

  1. Maintaining a steady pace.

  2. Diving in cold water.

  3. Ignoring air supply levels.

  4. Becoming too relaxed.

The correct answer is: Ignoring air supply levels.

Ignoring air supply levels is critical to avoid during a dive because it directly impacts diver safety. Monitoring and managing air supply is essential; running low on air can lead to panic and hasty ascents, which may result in decompression sickness or other diving-related injuries. Divers must be aware of their air levels throughout the dive to ensure they can safely complete their planned ascent and address any unexpected situations that may arise. Maintaining a steady pace is beneficial as it helps reduce fatigue and allows divers to conserve energy. Diving in cold water does present challenges, such as increased energy expenditure to maintain body temperature, but it is manageable with proper gear and awareness. Becoming too relaxed can lead to complacency, but it generally does not jeopardize safety as severely as failing to monitor air supply. Thus, awareness of air levels is vital for a safe and controlled diving experience.