How deep should a lifeguard be when performing rescues?

In a rescue scenario, a lifeguard should be at a depth that allows for the safe execution of the rescue. This approach prioritizes both the rescuer's safety and the effectiveness of the rescue.

Being positioned too deep could impede the lifeguard's ability to maneuver and respond appropriately. If the water is too shallow, it may not provide the necessary support for the rescue technique being used. Alternatively, being at the surface may limit the lifeguard’s ability to assist the distressed swimmer effectively if they are submerged.

By ensuring that the depth is suitable for the specific circumstances of the rescue, the lifeguard can maintain better control over the rescue situation while minimizing the risk of injury to both themselves and the person in distress. Evaluating the water conditions and the individual skills of the rescuer plays a vital role in determining this depth, which is why the emphasis is on finding an optimal position rather than a fixed depth.