After a lifeguard identifies a guest in distress, what is the required action if the guest becomes submerged?

When a lifeguard identifies a guest in distress and that guest becomes submerged, it is crucial to act quickly and efficiently. Conducting a bottom search of the entire zone is a necessary action in this situation because it allows the lifeguard to locate the submerged individual as quickly as possible. Time is of the essence in water rescues, as submerged individuals can face critical situations in a matter of seconds.

A bottom search involves visually scanning the bottom of the pool or water area where the guest was last seen. The lifeguard must dive down or swim underwater to thoroughly check the area in order to locate the guest in distress. This proactive approach is essential for ensuring the safety and potential rescue of the individual.

Other options, such as waiting for assistance or sounding an emergency alarm, can delay the rescue process. While sounding the alarm is important for notifying other lifeguards and activating emergency procedures, the immediate priority must focus on locating and rescuing the submerged person. Conducting a surface search alone would not be adequate in this case since the individual is already submerged and cannot be seen from the surface. Therefore, a bottom search is the appropriate and necessary course of action.