Red Cross Standards
What is the primary responsibility of a lifeguard?
To prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies
How many chest compressions are given during adult CPR?
30 compressions per cycle
What must all patrons do before entering the pool or spa?
Shower immediately before entering
What should lifeguards do before swimmers enter the water for safety?
Check the chemical balance and potential hazards in the pool area
What is the first step in an emergency action plan for a drowning person?
Activate EAP, call 911
What is the first step when approaching a victim in the water?
Activate the Emergency Action Plan (EAP)
What is the compression-to-breaths ration for 2-person CPR on an infant?
15 compressions to 2 breaths
Are cutoffs, jeans, or cotton clothing allowed in the pool?
No, proper swim attire is required
How often should a lifeguard scan their zone to ensure swimmer safety?
10 seconds
If a victim is choking and yet still able to breathe or speak, the first aider should:
Encourage the victim to continue to cough forecfully on his/her own
How often should lifeguards rotate positions during surveillance duty?
Approximately every 30 minutes or as scheduled to avoid fatigue
What should you do first if you find someone unconscious and not breathing?
Call for help and begin CPR
Who must always be within arm's reach of an adult in the water?
Children 6 and under or non-swimmers
What should you do if you see a swimmer struggling but they are not in immediate danger?
Use your whistle and make a reaching assist
Severe allergic reactions may become life threatening when the victim's face, neck, and tongue...
swell, closing the airway
What is the acronym for identifying a victim with a spinal injury?
Check for signs using the acronym SAMPLE: Signs/symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past Medical History, Last Oral Intake, Events leading up
When should you use an AED?
As soon as it becomes available and the person is unresponsive and not breathing?
What is the required height to use the slide?
48 inches
What is the rule for swimming during a lightning storm?
Clear the pool immediately and have people stay out of the showers
Before giving first aid to an injured or ill person, the first aider must have permission. The only exceptions are:
a. if the conscious victim is a child and the condition is serious
b. if the victim is unconscious or unable to respond
Describe the compact jump and when it should be used.
Jump with knees bent and rescue tube under arms into water more than 5ft deep when a platform is elevated
How do you treat a conscious choking adult?
Perform abdominal thrusts until object is removed or they become unconcscious
Can non-MV Rec staff conduct personal training or instruction in the facility?
No, only MV Rec Staff are authorized.
What should a lifeguard do if they notice a swimmer who is under the influence of alcohol?
Closely monitor the swimmer and offer to assist them out of the water if needed, lifeguards may ask the swimmer to leave the facility as being under the influence of alcohol and drugs violates our rules
You should move a victim when:
You are faced with immediate danger such as a fire, lack of oxygen etc.
It is necessary in order to reach another victim who has more serious
You need to provide proper care, such as CPR