an alarm system and method for use with a breathing apparatus that provides a source of breathable air to a user / diver . a tactile signal is generated in response to a signal representing at least one parameter corresponding to the breathing apparatus status , and the tactile signal can be both felt and heard by the user . the tactile signal may be generated in combination with a visual and / or an additional audible alarm . the tactile signal may be a vibration . the alarm may be worn on the face , either on the mask or on the mouthpiece . the vibrator serves two functions , one as a tactile alarm that the diver can feel during operation , and a second as an auditory alarm through bone - conduction of sound . the tactile alarm indicates to the user / diver that his particular unit is the one transmitting an alarm signal , and cannot be mistaken for any other device . the tactile signal may be generated to have one or more signal characteristics that are modulated to convey additional information about the parameter or parameters being monitored .