1
American Red Cross Lifeguarding Final Written Exam Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What is the correct ratio of chest compressions to breaths for adult CPR?
A. 15:2
✔✔B. 30:2
C. 45:2
D. 60:2
What is the best way to inform swimmers of safety rules?
- Ignoring minor rule violations
- Handing out rulebooks to all guests
- Only enforcing rules when supervisors are present
✔✔C. Clearly explaining and enforcing rules with positive communication
What should a lifeguard do if a person has a deep cut with heavy bleeding?✔✔A. Apply direct pressure with a sterile dressing and seek medical help 1 / 4
2
- Wash the wound with pool water
- Wait to see if the bleeding stops on its own
- Let the person continue swimming unless they feel dizzy
What is the primary reason for rotating lifeguards at different stations?
- To keep the job interesting
- To allow lifeguards to take personal calls
- To give lifeguards a chance to socialize
✔✔C. To prevent fatigue and ensure optimal surveillance
How should a lifeguard respond if they suspect a spinal injury in a guest who is conscious?
- Encourage the guest to move their head slowly
- Help them stand up carefully
- Ask them to swim to the edge for assessment
✔✔B. Instruct them to remain still and use in-line stabilization
Why is it important for lifeguards to stay hydrated during shifts?
- To avoid getting sunburned 2 / 4
3
✔✔B. To prevent fatigue and maintain focus
- To have an excuse to take breaks
- To avoid getting into the water too often
How can a lifeguard best prepare for an emergency rescue?✔✔A. Regularly practicing rescue skills and staying physically fit
- Watching videos instead of performing drills
- Carrying extra flotation devices at all times
- Avoiding making rescues unless necessary
What is the first step a lifeguard should take when approaching an unconscious swimmer?
- Check for a pulse
- Perform rescue breathing
- Begin chest compressions
✔✔C. Activate the emergency action plan
What should a lifeguard do if a conscious choking victim cannot cough, speak, or breathe?
- Encourage them to drink water 3 / 4
4
- Give rescue breaths immediately
- Wait for EMS to arrive before taking action
✔✔C. Perform abdominal thrusts until the object is dislodged
When scanning a crowded pool, a lifeguard should use which technique to ensure thorough coverage?
- Randomly look around the pool area
- Focus only on children in the water
- Wait until movement is noticed before scanning
✔✔B. Move eyes in a systematic pattern to scan all zones effectively
Why is it important for lifeguards to use the RID factor when monitoring patrons?
- To recognize swimmers who need sunscreen
- To provide rapid identification of pool maintenance issues
- To evaluate the pool’s water chemistry
✔✔B. To prevent Recognition, Intrusion, and Distraction from causing drownings
How often should lifeguards practice emergency action plan (EAP) drills?
- / 4