What should a lifeguard do if they notice someone struggling in the water?

When a lifeguard observes someone struggling in the water, the appropriate response is to immediately activate their emergency action plan and perform a rescue if necessary. This is essential because time is critical in situations involving a drowning or near-drowning incident. Quick action can prevent the individual from going under and can save their life.

Activating the emergency action plan ensures that all necessary protocols are followed, which may include summoning additional lifeguards or emergency services, securing the area, and preparing for a rescue. Performing a rescue promptly can also prevent escalation of the situation and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome, so lifeguards are trained to act swiftly.

Although assessing the situation is an essential skill for lifeguards, the urgency of immediately responding to a person in distress supersedes the need to first evaluate every detail, especially when it is evident that someone is in trouble. The goal is to intervene as promptly as possible while still ensuring personal safety and that of others. Ignoring the situation or merely waiting for assistance would not provide the help that the struggling individual needs, which is why immediate action is emphasized.