The length of time a person can stay underwater depends on several factors, including their physical condition, training, and the depth at which they are submerged. Here are some general guidelines:
Breath-holding: The average person can hold their breath for around 30 seconds to 2 minutes. However, trained individuals, such as freedivers, can hold their breath for several minutes. Through specific techniques and training, some freedivers have achieved breath-holding times of over 10 minutes.
Scuba diving: Scuba divers use underwater breathing apparatus, which allows them to remain submerged for longer periods. The duration of a scuba dive depends on factors such as the diver's air consumption rate, the depth of the dive, and the size of their air supply. A typical recreational scuba dive can last between 30 minutes to an hour, but deeper dives or technical diving can extend that time significantly.
Saturation diving: Saturation diving is a specialized technique used in commercial diving or research. It involves divers living in a pressurized environment, such as a saturation chamber, for extended periods. The divers are then transported to the dive site in a diving bell and can work at great depths for hours or even days. Saturation dives can last weeks, with divers spending several hours at a time underwater.
It's important to note that prolonged periods underwater, especially without proper training and equipment, can be extremely dangerous and potentially fatal due to the risks of drowning, oxygen toxicity, nitrogen narcosis, or decompression sickness. Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to safety guidelines, receive appropriate training, and use proper equipment when engaging in any underwater activities.