What is one of the key responsibilities of a lifeguard after an incident occurs?

One of the key responsibilities of a lifeguard after an incident occurs is to document the incident and follow up accordingly. Proper documentation is essential for several reasons. It creates an official record of what happened, which can be critical for analyzing the incident, understanding its causes, and preventing future occurrences. Accurate documentation also serves as an important reference for any follow-up procedures, such as notifying management, tracking injuries, or providing information for investigations.

Additionally, following up on the incident ensures that all necessary actions are taken after the initial response, which might include assessing the emotional and physical needs of those involved and evaluating the effectiveness of the emergency response. This process is essential for maintaining a safe environment and improving overall operations within the facility.

Engaging in social discussions, requiring staff breaks, or initiating new training sessions do not directly address the immediate need to record and assess the situation following an incident, making documentation the most relevant and critical responsibility in this context.