How do I breathe from a free-flowing regulator?Updated a year ago

While regulator failures are uncommon, a “free-flow” is the most likely malfunction. A free-flow is where air is constantly delivered out of the regulator instead of on-demand. A free-flow will deplete your air supply rapidly so it is essential that you surface safely as soon as possible.

To continue to breathe from a free-flowing regulator safely, remove the mouthpiece from inside your mouth and place it lightly against the outside of your lips. This allows excess air to escape through the sides of your lips. Create a splash guard by placing your tongue against the roof of your mouth, breathe carefully and ascend to the surface at a safe rate of no more than 6 metres (20 feet) per forty seconds.