What is the main purpose of a lifeguard chair?

The main purpose of a lifeguard chair is to elevate the lifeguard for better visibility. When lifeguards are positioned higher than the patrons in the water, it allows them to more effectively scan the area for potential dangers or emergency situations. This elevated position improves their line of sight, enabling them to spot swimmers who may be struggling or in distress as well as observe the overall activity in the pool or beach area.

While providing a comfortable place for lifeguards to relax or storing equipment may seem advantageous, these are not the primary functions of the chair. The primary role is focused on ensuring the safety of swimmers by enhancing the lifeguard's ability to monitor the environment effectively. Keeping the lifeguard safe from patrons is not a direct function of the chair's design, but rather refers to the procedural aspects of lifeguard training and interaction with the public.