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Lifeguard Test: Red Cross Questions
and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What is the first step a lifeguard should take when performing a rescue for a swimmer in distress?
a) Swim out to the swimmer
b) Shout for help
✔✔ c) Assess the situation from the safety of the lifeguard chair
d) Jump into the water immediately
What is the primary purpose of a lifeguard's scanning technique?
a) To maintain awareness of swimmers' behavior
b) To observe the weather
✔✔ c) To spot any signs of distress in swimmers
d) To monitor the lifeguard station
When performing CPR on a child, what is the correct compression depth?
- 1 inch 1 / 4
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✔✔ b) About 2 inches
- 3 inches
- 4 inches
What should a lifeguard do if they notice a swimmer who is showing signs of a spinal injury?✔✔ a) Minimize movement and stabilize the neck
b) Assist them to the poolside immediately
c) Attempt to remove them from the water as quickly as possible
d) Let the swimmer get out on their own
Which of the following is a sign that a swimmer may be in trouble?
a) Swimming calmly and smoothly
✔✔ b) Climbing the ladder slowly or panicking in the water
c) Floating with no distress
d) Splashing playfully
What is the best method for a lifeguard to approach a distressed swimmer?
a) Swim directly to them from behind 2 / 4
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b) Approach them from the side
✔✔ c) Use a rescue tube to keep a safe distance
d) Call for assistance and wait
How often should lifeguards change shifts to maintain focus and attention?
a) Every hour
✔✔ b) Every 30 minutes
c) Every 45 minutes
d) Once every 2 hours
What should you do when you see a swimmer who appears to be having trouble but is not actively yelling for help?✔✔ a) Perform a quick assessment to see if they need assistance
b) Wait until they start splashing
c) Ignore them since they’re not calling for help
d) Blow your whistle to get their attention
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When conducting a water rescue, which piece of equipment is typically used to provide the most support for both the rescuer and the swimmer?
a) Rescue board
b) Lifeguard tube
✔✔ c) Rescue buoy
d) Flotation ring
What is the first action a lifeguard should take when they observe a potential drowning situation?
a) Jump into the water immediately
✔✔ b) Blow the whistle to alert others
c) Swim out to the swimmer
d) Call for backup immediately
In which situation should a lifeguard perform a head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver?
a) To check if a swimmer is breathing
✔✔ b) When performing CPR
c) When you are pulling someone from the water
d) When there is a spinal injury
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