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Lifeguarding Chapters 1-5 Review Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What should a lifeguard do before starting their shift?✔✔ Check the pool area, rescue equipment, and emergency action plan procedures.
Why must lifeguards maintain a 10/20 scanning rule?✔✔ To identify a potential drowning victim within 10 seconds and reach them within 20 seconds.
What is the primary sign of a passive drowning victim?✔✔ The person is motionless and floating face-down in the water.
How can a lifeguard effectively prevent dehydration during a long shift?✔✔ By drinking plenty of water and taking breaks in the shade.
Why is it important to enforce the “no running” rule on the pool deck?✔✔ To prevent slips and falls that can cause serious injuries. 1 / 4
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What should a lifeguard do if they see a young child swimming without a life jacket in deep water?✔✔ Monitor closely and ensure they have the skills to swim safely or recommend a flotation device.
How can a lifeguard tell if a swimmer is in distress?✔✔ The swimmer may be struggling to keep their head above water, waving for help, or appearing exhausted.
Why must lifeguards conduct regular safety checks?✔✔ To identify and correct hazards before they lead to an accident.
What should a lifeguard do if an unresponsive person is pulled from the water?✔✔ Begin CPR if necessary and call for emergency medical assistance immediately.
Why should lifeguards always have a rescue tube with them?✔✔ To provide flotation support during a rescue and protect themselves from panicked swimmers. 2 / 4
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What should a lifeguard do if a swimmer refuses to exit the water during a safety evacuation?✔✔ Calmly explain the danger and, if necessary, seek assistance from a supervisor.
How can lifeguards improve their ability to spot potential emergencies?✔✔ By maintaining an active posture, using scanning techniques, and eliminating distractions.
What is the best way for lifeguards to communicate with each other across a large facility?✔✔ Using whistles, hand signals, and radios if available.
Why must lifeguards undergo physical conditioning exercises?✔✔ To stay in peak physical shape for swimming, endurance, and strength-based rescues.
What should a lifeguard do if they witness a medical emergency outside the pool?✔✔ Provide first aid and CPR if necessary, and call emergency services.
Why is it important for lifeguards to know the signs of heat exhaustion?✔✔ Because prolonged sun exposure can cause fatigue, dizziness, and dehydration. 3 / 4
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What should a lifeguard do when assisting a panicked swimmer?✔✔ Approach with caution, offer the rescue tube, and avoid direct contact if possible.
How can a lifeguard prevent accidents when dealing with children at the pool?✔✔ By closely monitoring them and ensuring they are always supervised by an adult.
Why should lifeguards report all incidents, even minor ones?✔✔ To create accurate records and track patterns of potential safety concerns.
What should a lifeguard do if a swimmer complains of chest pain?✔✔ Encourage them to exit the water and seek medical attention immediately.
Why must lifeguards be trained in spinal injury management?✔✔ Because improper handling of a spinal injury can lead to paralysis or worse.
How can lifeguards build rapport with guests?✔✔ By greeting them, providing safety tips, and answering any questions they may have.
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