What is the primary responsibility of a lifeguard?

The primary responsibility of a lifeguard is to prevent drowning and injury by supervising aquatic activities. This central duty encompasses actively monitoring swimmers and other patrons in the water, ensuring that the environment remains safe for all. Lifeguards are trained to recognize potential hazards, respond to emergencies, and take swift action to rescue individuals at risk of drowning or injury.

While providing first aid and medical assistance is an important aspect of a lifeguard's training, it is typically a secondary response that follows their primary duty of prevention and supervision. Teaching swimming lessons and overseeing facility maintenance, although valuable roles, are not direct responsibilities of a lifeguard. Instead, their focus is on vigilant observation and proactive measures to safeguard the wellbeing of everyone in the aquatic area.