When should a lifeguard perform a rescue?

A lifeguard should perform a rescue when a swimmer is in immediate danger. This situation requires prompt action to prevent serious harm or potential drowning. Lifeguards are trained to recognize signs of distress in swimmers, such as struggling to stay afloat, signaling for help, or exhibiting panic behavior. In these cases, quick intervention is essential to ensure the safety of the swimmer.

Rescues are not warranted simply because a swimmer is taking a break, as this does not indicate any danger. If a swimmer is capable of returning to shore on their own, the situation does not necessitate a rescue, as they are not in distress. Additionally, a swimmer appearing uninjured does not imply they do not require assistance; they could still be in danger due to other factors, such as exhaustion or the need for rescuing them from a hazardous situation. Therefore, the focus should always be on the immediate safety of the swimmer when determining the need for a rescue.