During a rescue, what should a lifeguard use to keep themselves safe while approaching a victim?

Using a flotation device, such as a rescue buoy, and proper swimming techniques are essential for a lifeguard's safety when approaching a victim in need of assistance.

A flotation device serves multiple purposes: it can provide support for both the lifeguard and the victim, making it easier to keep the victim afloat and preventing the lifeguard from becoming fatigued during the rescue. The buoy can also act as a physical barrier, allowing the lifeguard to keep a safe distance from a panicking victim who may inadvertently put the rescuer at risk.

Proper swimming techniques are crucial for maintaining control and ensuring efficiency while navigating through potentially challenging conditions, such as strong currents or waves. Mastery of techniques such as self-rescue maneuvers and effective approach strategies is vital to ensure that a lifeguard can maintain their own safety while executing a rescue.

Combining all these elements—use of flotation devices, a rescue buoy, and proper swimming techniques—enables lifeguards to approach victims safely and effectively, ensuring both their own safety and that of the person in distress.