What is the first action a lifeguard should take upon witnessing a drowning?

The first action a lifeguard should take upon witnessing a drowning is to activate emergency response and ensure personal safety. This is critical because the safety of the lifeguard must always come first to prevent becoming another victim in a potentially dangerous situation. By activating emergency response, the lifeguard ensures that professional medical help is on the way, and it also allows the lifeguard to focus on carrying out a safe and effective rescue.

After confirming personal safety, the lifeguard can then assess the situation and choose the most appropriate method to reach and assist the person in distress without putting themselves at risk. Jumping into the water to perform a rescue may seem like an immediate response, but this approach can be dangerous, especially if the drowning individual might instinctively struggle and pull the rescuer under. Starting CPR immediately or yelling for help are also actions that are premature without firstly ensuring safety and proper assessment of the situation. Therefore, activating emergency response and ensuring safety lays the groundwork for an effective rescue effort.