Passive Panic

As discussed earlier, panic may not manifest itself with wild struggling. In some instances, the victim freezes into a trance-like state unaware of the surroundings or anything happening.

Approach the diver from the front and signal, "Okay?" If you get no response, go behind the diver and, holding the regulator in place, take the diver to the surface. It's important to help the diver from behind because passive panic may change to active panic without warning; by remaining behind the victim, you'll be out of his immediate grasp.

Once you reach the surface, establish buoyancy for the victim and yourself, and help the victim out of the water.