If a lifeguard finds a swimmer unconscious, what is the first action they should take?

When a lifeguard encounters an unconscious swimmer, the priority is to ensure the safety and care of the individual as quickly as possible. The lifeguard’s first action should be to call for help and begin CPR if they are trained to do so. This response is crucial because an unconscious swimmer may not be breathing properly or at all, which can lead to a life-threatening situation.

Calling for help is essential because emergency services need to be alerted as soon as possible to provide further assistance. While CPR is being administered, every second matters, and starting this lifesaving procedure immediately can greatly improve the chances of survival.

The other options do not prioritize the immediate needs of the unconscious swimmer. For instance, giving water is inappropriate and could lead to choking. Looking for a nearby flotation device may be useful in different scenarios, but in the face of unconsciousness, immediate CPR is more critical. Checking for a pulse can be a step in the assessment but should not delay the call for help or the initiation of CPR if breathing is compromised. The focus must remain on acting swiftly to preserve the swimmer's life.