What are the mandatory pieces of equipment readily available to a lifeguard?

The selection emphasizes the essential equipment that a lifeguard must have readily available to ensure effective response in emergency situations. This includes gloves, which are critical for protecting the lifeguard when administering first aid or CPR, preventing the potential transmission of infections. The rescue tube is a vital flotation device designed for lifeguards to assist a drowning victim safely; it allows for better maneuverability in the water while providing buoyancy. The first aid kit contains medical supplies necessary for addressing a variety of injuries and conditions that may occur in a pool or beach setting. The AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is crucial for providing immediate assistance in cases of cardiac arrest, significantly increasing the chances of survival when used promptly.

Other options contain items that, while they may be beneficial in certain contexts, do not encompass the essential standard equipment required for addressing most lifeguarding emergencies directly. For example, while a diving board or rescue boat might be used in specific aquatic environments, they are not fundamental to every lifeguard's emergency response toolkit.