What is the first step a lifeguard should take upon spotting an emergency?

When a lifeguard spots an emergency, the first step to take is to alert other lifeguards and assess the situation. This step is crucial because it ensures that there is a coordinated response to the emergency. By notifying fellow lifeguards, multiple trained individuals can quickly come together to manage the situation effectively.

Assessing the situation allows the lifeguard to determine the severity of the emergency and the best course of action. This is important for several reasons: it helps identify whether the emergency requires immediate intervention, what resources are needed, and how many lifeguards should be involved. Additionally, assessing the situation can reveal potential hazards that could affect both the lifeguards and the victims involved.

Immediate rescue without prior assessment can lead to dangerous situations, both for the lifeguard and the victim, especially if the lifeguard misunderstand the circumstances or if the environment poses additional risks. Therefore, alerting others and evaluating the situation ensures safety and effective emergency management.