What is the main function of a primary reel in diving?

The primary reel's main function in diving, particularly in cavern diving scenarios, is to act as a temporary guideline that helps divers navigate safely from open water to a permanent guideline. This is critical in environments like caves, where visibility can be limited and the potential for disorientation is high. By deploying a primary reel, divers can create a physical path to follow, ensuring they can find their way into and out of the cavern system.

The use of a guideline not only enhances navigation but also provides a reliable point of reference to prevent becoming lost in the complex underwater environment. It's an essential tool for maintaining safety and allows divers to focus on the exploration of the cavern without the added stress of managing navigation solely by visual means.

In situations where divers may not have established permanent guidelines to follow, having a primary reel to create these paths becomes even more necessary for ensuring a safe and organized dive.