What should a lifeguard do after performing a rescue?

After performing a rescue, it is essential for a lifeguard to complete a detailed incident report. This report serves several critical purposes. First, it documents the circumstances of the rescue, including the location, time, conditions, and any relevant actions taken. This information is crucial for maintaining a record of incidents that can be reviewed later for safety training and procedural improvement.

Furthermore, an incident report can be vital for legal and liability reasons. In the event of any follow-up medical issues or disputes regarding the rescue, having a thorough, professional account of what took place protects both the lifeguard and the facility. It can also help in analyzing the effectiveness of lifeguard training and emergency response protocols, leading to future enhancements in safety measures.

Once the report is completed, it can help inform staff meetings, training sessions, and may contribute to preventative measures to avoid similar incidents in the future. Therefore, documenting the incident is a professional responsibility that underscores the lifeguard's role in ensuring safety and accountability at the facility.