How should lifeguards react to severe weather conditions, such as lightning?

When severe weather conditions such as lightning occur, the primary concern for lifeguards is the safety of all patrons. Clearing the pool and surrounding areas is the appropriate response to ensure that individuals are safe from potential hazards associated with lightning strikes. Water is a conductor of electricity, and being in or near water during a lightning storm significantly increases the risk of injury or fatality. By evacuating the pool and surrounding areas, lifeguards help to mitigate these risks.

This action allows for the implementation of safety protocols, such as bringing patrons to a safe location where they are less vulnerable to lightning. It also provides an opportunity for lifeguards to monitor the situation more effectively and assess when it might be safe to return to the water. Prioritizing patron safety in the face of severe weather is crucial in a lifeguard's role, making this response vital in such situations.