American Lifeguard Practice Exam

What should you check for before approaching a victim at an incident scene?

1. Presence of bystanders

2. The time since the incident occurred

3. Safety of the scene

4. Type of injuries sustained

The correct answer is: Safety of the scene

Ensuring the safety of the scene is a crucial first step before approaching a victim in any emergency situation. This is vital because a lifeguard or rescuer must not put themselves in danger while attempting to assist someone else. Areas like water hazards, unstable structures, traffic, or any ongoing hazards must be assessed to avoid becoming another victim. Evaluating the scene for safety may involve checking for risks such as drowning, rapid currents, or any environmental dangers. This action helps determine the safest approach to the victim and ensures the rescuer's ability to provide help without jeopardizing their own safety. While the presence of bystanders, the time since the incident, and the type of injuries are all important factors to consider during an emergency, they are secondary to the immediate concern of ensuring that the environment is safe for intervention. Without first ensuring that the scene is secure, any subsequent actions taken to assist the victim can lead to further complications or risks.