How should you ascend if you have exceeded your dive computer's oxygen exposure limits?

Ascending at a controlled pace with a safety stop is the best practice to follow in this situation. When you exceed your dive computer's oxygen exposure limits, it indicates that you've spent more time at certain depths and potentially absorbed more oxygen than is safe or recommended. A controlled ascent minimizes the risk of decompression sickness and allows your body to off-gas excess nitrogen safely, which is crucial when you've been exposed to higher partial pressures of oxygen.

Making a safety stop helps to manage your ascent time and allows for further decompression, providing an additional buffer against any potential complications. Safety stops, usually performed at about 15 feet (5 meters) for 3-5 minutes, give your body a chance to expel nitrogen while you ascend, reducing the risk of accumulating bubbles that can lead to decompression sickness.

Other options like ascending quickly, allowing insufficient time before surfacing, or making a free ascent could significantly increase risks, as they might not provide the necessary time for your body to adjust and off-gas. Being aware of your oxygen exposure limits and following safe ascent procedures is vital to maintaining safety during and after a dive.