What is the main focus during a distressed swimmer rescue?

During a distressed swimmer rescue, the primary concern is to ensure that the swimmer receives immediate assistance. This focus is critical because a distressed swimmer is often struggling to keep their head above water and may be in danger of drowning. The lifeguard's main priority is to stabilize the situation and provide help as quickly as possible to prevent further distress or potential drowning.

Immediate assistance includes approaching the distressed swimmer in a safe manner, using appropriate rescue techniques, and providing flotation aids or direct support to help them regain control. The lifeguard must act swiftly to assess the swimmer's condition and provide the necessary intervention to stabilize them.

While maintaining a lookout for other swimmers and retrieving equipment can be important in a broader sense of pool safety, during the critical moment of a rescue, the instinctive response should be to prioritize the safety and support of the distressed swimmer to address their immediate need for help.