What should a lifeguard prioritize when rescuing a drowning swimmer?

When rescuing a drowning swimmer, the primary focus should be on ensuring the swimmer is calm and secure. This is crucial for several reasons. First, a drowning situation often leads to panic for the individual in distress, which can result in erratic movements and increased risk of injury or ineffective rescue efforts. By prioritizing the swimmer's calmness, you can facilitate a more controlled and effective rescue process.

Additionally, a calm swimmer is less likely to struggle against the rescuer, which not only aids in their own safety but also enhances the rescuer's ability to carry out the rescue effectively. Creating a secure environment for the swimmer can help ease their panic and allow for a smoother transition from danger to safety.

Other considerations, such as the lifeguard's safety, are always important but should not overshadow the immediate need to assist the distressed swimmer. While assessing the crowd's reaction and quickly getting the swimmer out are also aspects of a rescue scenario, they should not take precedence over ensuring the swimmer feels secure and calm throughout the process.