What essential equipment should a lifeguard have during a shift?

A lifeguard must have access to essential lifesaving equipment during their shift to ensure the safety of patrons in the aquatic environment. The best combination for effective lifeguarding includes a rescue tube, which assists in reaching and retrieving individuals in distress, a first aid kit for addressing injuries and medical emergencies, and an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) for the prompt treatment of cardiac arrest situations.

This equipment enables lifeguards to respond quickly and effectively in emergencies, which can be critical in saving lives. While flotation devices and whistles are important, they do not encompass the full range of lifesaving measures that can be needed when a medical emergency occurs. Swim fins and snorkeling gear are more suited for recreational use rather than lifeguarding duties, and sun protection and swimwear, while important for personal safety and comfort, do not directly relate to the lifesaving responsibilities of a lifeguard. Thus, the combination of a rescue tube, first aid kit, and AED represents the most comprehensive and essential gear for a lifeguard on duty.