Jammed Reel

You send up a marker buoy to let the dive boat know you're making a lengthy safety stop, when suddenly the reel jams, and you head for the surface like a hooked mackerel!
Risk Factor:
Sometimes divers use a reel in conjunction with a surface marker buoy or safety sausage. The primary risk is being yanked or pulled to the surface if the reel jams during deployment of the buoyant device. Divers who make a rapid or uncontrolled ascent also face risk factors for DCI and AGE.
Likely Causes:
The cause of rapid ascents associated with the use of line reels are primarily due to improper techniques and procedures. These include having the device clipped to themselves during deployment and gripping the reel too tightly.
Avoidance:
The best bet is to get professional instruction before using a line reel to deploy a buoy or other buoyant device.  The PADI Distinctive SMB Speciality course provides you with the skills required to deploy an SMB safely, in addition to completing your course with Dive Rutland we also get you try deploying various types of SMB with different types of reel, so that you make the right choice for you, when equipment purchasing.
In addition, a few simple rules apply: Never clip the reel to yourself during deployment, deploy slowly and down current to avoid entanglements and make certain your buoyancy is properly set before deployment. If possible, anchor yourself while deploying a buoyant device with a line reel.
Dealing With It:
If you do find yourself on the business end of a runaway reel, dump all air from your BC and flare your body to slow the ascent. If possible, cut the line free and let the buoyant device surface without you. If that isn't possible, follow the procedures for a blown deco stop if that scenario applies.