What should lifeguards avoid doing while performing a rescue?

Jumping into the water unless absolutely necessary is critical advice for lifeguards, as it helps ensure their safety and allows them to maintain control of the situation. Lifeguards are trained to assess the environment and the circumstances of a rescue thoroughly; entering the water can put them at greater risk if conditions are dangerous, such as strong currents or waves.

By avoiding jumping into the water, lifeguards can utilize other rescue techniques that may be safer and more effective, such as reaching out with a rescue buoy or using a rescue tube from the edge of the pool or shore. This approach not only protects the lifeguard but also enhances the chances of a successful rescue without additional complications.

In many cases, lifeguards are trained to call for assistance from colleagues, provide verbal guidance to the victim, or use available rescue equipment, all of which are safer options than entering the water directly. These measures allow lifeguards to maintain a clear assessment of the situation while ensuring their safety and the safety of the victim.