If a lifeguard suspects a swimmer is intoxicated, what should they do?

The appropriate course of action when a lifeguard suspects a swimmer is intoxicated is to remove the individual from the water and consult with their team. This is critical for ensuring the safety of the swimmer as well as others in the vicinity. Intoxicated individuals may have impaired judgment, decreased motor skills, and increased risk of drowning. By removing them from the water, the lifeguard can prevent an emergency situation from developing.

Consulting with team members allows for the situation to be assessed further and additional support to be gathered, which is essential in such scenarios. It ensures that the lifeguard is not acting alone and that backup is available to manage the swimmer's condition appropriately. Lifeguards work in environments where immediate response is vital, and teamwork is a crucial component of effective lifeguarding practices.

Simply letting the swimmer continue or merely observing without action would not address the potential danger posed by intoxication. Calling an ambulance might be necessary in more severe cases, but it is essential first to assess the swimmer's condition, as immediate judgment on the need for medical assistance can be more effective when done collaboratively with fellow lifeguards.