What should a lifeguard do if they witness a swimmer struggling in the water?

When a lifeguard witnesses a swimmer struggling in the water, taking immediate action is critical for the safety of the individual. The correct response involves executing a rescue as quickly as possible to prevent drowning or further distress. Immediate action is essential because every second counts in these emergency situations; delaying could lead to more severe consequences for the swimmer.

A lifeguard is trained to assess the situation quickly and respond according to their training. Depending on the swimmer's condition and the lifeguard's assessment, they may use various techniques, such as entering the water or employing a rescue device, to secure the swimmer’s safety. The lifeguard’s focus needs to be on providing assistance and support to the swimmer to ensure they are brought back to safety effectively.

While alerting other lifeguards and using a whistle can be important in many circumstances, these should follow the initiation of immediate rescue efforts as the top priority. Also, simply shouting instructions or waiting for the swimmer to come to the edge does not address the immediate danger the person is facing. The responsibility of a lifeguard is to prioritize the swimmer’s safety by performing a rescue as swiftly and safely as possible.