American Lifeguard Practice Exam

If you witness someone collapse and become unconscious, what is your obligation?

1. There is no obligation to act

2. You have a duty to act

3. Only act if you know the person

4. Assist only if a supervisor is present

The correct answer is: You have a duty to act

In situations where an individual collapses and becomes unconscious, you have a duty to act, particularly if you are trained in first aid or lifeguarding practices. This obligation stems from both ethical responsibilities and legal principles, often referred to as the "Good Samaritan" laws, which encourage bystanders to assist those in need without fear of legal repercussions, as long as they act reasonably and within the scope of their knowledge and training. Taking action in such scenarios can mean calling emergency services, assessing the individual's condition, providing basic life support, or administering CPR if necessary and within your skill set. Your role is critical, as immediate assistance can greatly increase the likelihood of the individual's survival or recovery. The other options suggest a lack of responsibility to intervene or limitations on when to act, which can lead to inaction in emergency situations—something that generally is not in line with the values of lifeguarding and first-aid training. Thus, taking responsibility for the safety of others in such instances is paramount.