Which skill set is emphasized during StarGuard courses?

The emphasis on CPR and first aid competencies in StarGuard courses is crucial because these skills are vital for responding effectively in emergency situations. Lifeguards must not only be proficient swimmers but also capable of administering CPR to anyone who is unresponsive or not breathing. These competencies ensure that lifeguards can provide immediate care, potentially saving lives while waiting for emergency medical services to arrive.

Additionally, mastering CPR and first aid equips lifeguards with the knowledge to identify and manage various medical emergencies that may arise in a recreational setting, such as poolside accidents or aquatic incidents. This focus on both practical life-saving skills and critical first aid response reinforces the holistic preparedness required from lifeguards, making them confident and capable in actual emergencies.

Other choices either focus too narrowly on advanced techniques or swimming skills, which, while important, do not encompass the breadth of knowledge and readiness required in lifeguarding. Additionally, an exclusive emphasis on theory disregards the practical application of these life-saving skills that are central to the role of a lifeguard.