How should lifeguards handle a non-swimmer found in the water?

Handling a non-swimmer found in the water requires a careful and strategic approach to ensure the safety of both the lifeguard and the individual in distress. The recommended action is to retrieve the individual using a rescue tube without putting themselves at risk.

This method provides several key advantages. First, the rescue tube acts as a flotation device that allows the lifeguard to maintain their own safety while assisting the non-swimmer. By using the tube, the lifeguard can reach the individual with minimal physical exertion and without putting themselves in a vulnerable position. This is crucial, as entering the water can increase risks for both the lifeguard and the distressed individual, especially if the lifeguard is not trained in rescue swimming techniques or if the conditions are challenging.

Additionally, by using the rescue tube, the lifeguard can effectively support the individual in distress, giving them something to hold onto, which helps prevent panic and improves the chances of a successful rescue. The lifeguard can also maintain a safe distance from the non-swimmer, minimizing the risk of the non-swimmer's movements causing harm.

In contrast, jumping in to swim directly to the individual can lead to dangerous situations where the lifeguard risks getting overwhelmed, especially if