There has been a recent controversy about solo diving vs. buddy diving.  I always dive and will continue to dive, with a buddy. You never know when something will happen, such as your regulator crapping out. Having that buddy gives you an extra safety measure. Solo divers often tell me that a buddy they do not know can be more dangerous, than diving alone. However, in the article linked you will see that the extra line of protection is still worth the trouble.

I help teach diving with the YMCA Scuba program. The more I teach, the more it is apparent that diving with a buddy can SAVE YOUR LIFE! Be smart, be safe and dive responsibility.