What are the basic components of a rescue tube?

The basic components of a rescue tube include a buoyant tube, a shoulder strap, and a towing harness. The buoyant tube is essential for providing flotation assistance to an individual in distress and is specifically designed to support a person safely in the water. The shoulder strap allows the lifeguard to carry the tube easily while on duty and ensures immediate access when a rescue is needed. The towing harness is a critical feature that enables the rescuer to secure the rescue tube to the individual being rescued, facilitating a safe and efficient way to tow them to safety.

Other options provide components that are not standard for a rescue tube. For instance, the inclusion of a whistle suggests signaling or communication purposes, which are not built into the rescue tube's design. Similarly, a lifejacket or an oxygen tank are not necessary components for a standard rescue tube, as the tube itself is designed to provide the flotation needed in a rescue scenario. Ultimately, option B accurately reflects the essential elements that make up a rescue tube and how they function together in a lifesaving context.