What are some signs that indicate a swimmer may be in distress?

The signs indicating a swimmer may be in distress are predominantly characterized by behaviors that convey struggle or difficulty in maintaining safety in the water. Flailing arms and an inability to keep their head above water are clear indicators of distress; these actions usually suggest that the swimmer is unable to sustain their buoyancy and is struggling to breathe.

In contrast, calm swimming and controlled breathing typically indicate that a swimmer is competent and not in any immediate danger, as they can maintain their energy and manage their position in the water effectively. Chatting with others while floating is typically a sign of relaxation, and waving for help while performing a backstroke may also not signify distress, as it is a proactive swimming technique that could indicate the swimmer is still in control of their movements.

Thus, the first scenario of flailing arms and difficulty in keeping the head above water is a critical sign that a lifeguard or bystander should recognize promptly to respond appropriately and ensure the safety of the swimmer in distress.