What ratio of lifeguard to junior campers is required?

The correct answer indicates the ratio of lifeguards to junior campers should be 1:6. This ratio is established to ensure a safe environment for younger campers, who may require more supervision and assistance in the water. A lifeguard's primary responsibility is to monitor pool or aquatic activity, ensuring that all campers remain safe while enjoying their time in the water.

Having one lifeguard for every six junior campers allows the lifeguard to maintain effective surveillance and provide immediate attention to any swimmer in distress, facilitating timely rescue efforts. This balance ensures that the lifeguard is not overwhelmed and can provide appropriate care to each camper, including monitoring their behavior, providing safety instructions, and engaging with them to promote a fun and safe experience.

Other ratios would either spread the lifeguard too thin, which could hinder their ability to respond quickly to emergencies, or create an unsafe environment where too few lifeguards are present for the number of campers. The specified ratio of 1:6 strikes a necessary balance between safety and manageability in a potentially high-energy setting like a summer camp.