What must a lifeguard ultimately do within 3 minutes if a guest in distress is submerged?

A lifeguard must recover the guest within 3 minutes if they are submerged and in distress. This urgent timeframe is critical because the chances of survival decrease significantly with prolonged submersion and lack of oxygen. Lifeguards are trained to quickly and effectively execute rescue techniques to bring the individual to the surface, assess their condition, and perform necessary first aid.

While calling emergency services, performing CPR, and notifying a supervisor are important components of the overall emergency response plan, they should occur after ensuring the safety of the submerged guest. The primary responsibility in this situation is to recover the person as quickly as possible to minimize the potential for drowning and subsequent complications. Rapid recovery allows for immediate lifesaving interventions, significantly increasing the chance of survival and positive outcomes for the guest.