What is a common emergency lifeguards must be prepared for?

Lifeguards are primarily trained to respond to situations that directly impact the safety and well-being of patrons in and around the water. A drowning or near-drowning incident is a critical emergency that demands immediate action, making it a central focus in lifeguard training. These situations require a swift and effective response to prevent loss of life or serious injury, which can happen quickly if a patron is struggling in the water. Lifeguards are taught to recognize the signs of distress, utilize rescue techniques, and perform potentially life-saving skills, such as CPR and first aid.

While other options like lost and found items, general maintenance issues, and routine pool cleaning are relevant to the management of a facility, they do not represent emergencies that pose an immediate risk to patron safety. The primary role of a lifeguard is to ensure the safe enjoyment of the aquatic environment, making preparedness for drowning incidents paramount in their scope of training and responsibilities.