Dreads will try to merge with the ones around them if you aren't careful! It can happen down the body of the dread with just a little loose hair, or at untended roots.

In either case, you can separate them by pulling the individual locks apart, down to the scalp. This may hurt - so try to be as gentle as possible! If you are very VERY careful, and you can see exactly where the hair is joined, you can make a small cut to help get the separation going - a trusted friend may be your best bet, here.

A very trusted friend.

To prevent them growing together in the first place, keep up a consistent palmrolling schedule, and run your fingers through your dreads every day. Snapping one or two hairs is better than trying to rip through a whole section!