Which lifeguard skill can be adversely affected if the water is cloudy?

Cloudy water can significantly hinder a lifeguard's ability to perform rescues effectively. When visibility is compromised due to murky or cloudy conditions, it becomes challenging for lifeguards to clearly see individuals in distress, which may delay recognition of a problem and response time. Lifeguards rely on visual assessments to monitor the safety of swimmers and identify anyone who may require assistance.

If the water is unclear, not only may lifeguards miss subtle signs of distress—such as a swimmer struggling or a child who may have drifted away from the group—but they may also face difficulties in maneuvering during a rescue. The inability to see submerged individuals can complicate the rescue plan, reducing the effectiveness and speed of the response, which is critical in emergency situations.

In contrast, while cloudy water might influence the ability to communicate effectively or use signals, the level of concern is heightened specifically in the context of rescue operations where visibility directly impacts safety outcomes.