SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/scuba-hand-signal-up

What does a thumb up mean underwater?

Ascend, not OK.

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  1. Ascend ✔
  2. OK
  3. Turn around

Why: Underwater, a fist with the thumb pointing up means go up to the surface. It does not mean OK; OK is the thumb and index finger circle.

Huh, didn't know that: The up signal usually comes after the safety stop so the whole group surfaces together.

The dad joke
Why did the diver give a thumb up? He wanted to rise above the situation.
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References

Answer: Ascend. Underwater, a fist with the thumb pointing up means go up to the surface. It does not mean OK; OK is the thumb and index finger circle.

  1. SSI: Basic Hand Signals Every Diver Needs to Know www.divessi.com/blog/basic-hand-signals-every-diver-needs-to-know-8837.html
    With your hand in a fist and your thumb pointing upwards.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. SSI: Basic Hand Signals Every Diver Needs to Know www.divessi.com/blog/basic-hand-signals-every-diver-needs-to-know-8837.html
    You would use this signal if you wanted to go to the surface.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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