What should a lifeguard prioritize when multiple victims are present?

In a scenario where multiple victims are present, prioritizing the assessment of the severity of each victim's condition is crucial. This approach allows the lifeguard to quickly identify who requires immediate attention based on their medical needs. By determining the severity of injuries or health issues, the lifeguard can effectively triage the situation, ensuring that life-threatening conditions are addressed first.

Assessing each victim helps in allocating resources and efforts appropriately, ensuring that no one who could be in immediate danger is overlooked. It creates a systematic way to manage the emergency, guiding decisions on rescue and first aid interventions. Furthermore, this method aligns with the protocols set forth in lifeguard training, emphasizing the importance of systematic assessment in emergency response.

Other options may lead to ineffective responses. For instance, starting rescue efforts with the least injured could delay necessary assistance for those in critical condition. Administering first aid to those who request it might not be appropriate if the individual is not the most critically injured. Focusing solely on supervising the water neglects the immediate needs of the victims present and can put lives at risk.