Red Cross Lifeguarding Practice Test
Questions and Answers | Latest Version
| 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What is the first action a lifeguard should take in an emergency?
✔✔ Activate the emergency action plan and assess the scene.
How can a lifeguard tell if a swimmer is experiencing a medical emergency?
✔✔ Watch for signs like confusion, sudden weakness, or unresponsiveness.
What is the best way for a lifeguard to prevent dehydration while on duty?
✔✔ Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive sun exposure.
Why should lifeguards perform regular equipment checks?
✔✔ To ensure all rescue tools are functional and ready for emergencies.
What should a lifeguard do if a swimmer suddenly grips their chest and goes underwater?
✔✔ Assume a cardiac emergency, retrieve the swimmer, and start CPR if needed.
1
,How can a lifeguard safely enter the water when a spinal injury is suspected?
✔✔ Use the slide-in entry to avoid unnecessary movement in the water.
What should a lifeguard do after a successful water rescue?
✔✔ Assess the victim’s condition and provide first aid if needed.
Why is it important for lifeguards to document all incidents?
✔✔ To provide accurate records for safety improvements and liability purposes.
What should a lifeguard do if a child is found unconscious near the pool?
✔✔ Check for responsiveness, call for help, and start CPR if necessary.
How should a lifeguard react to a swimmer struggling in deep water?
✔✔ Approach with a rescue tube and keep a safe distance to avoid being grabbed.
Why is teamwork essential during lifeguard shifts?
✔✔ It allows for quick coordination and efficient emergency responses.
2
, What is the best way to clear an obstructed airway in a conscious choking victim?
✔✔ Perform abdominal thrusts until the obstruction is removed.
How can lifeguards prevent overexertion while on duty?
✔✔ Take scheduled breaks, stay hydrated, and maintain physical fitness.
What should a lifeguard do if a swimmer is caught in a strong current?
✔✔ Encourage them to swim parallel to the shore and provide assistance if needed.
Why is it important to scan the pool area continuously?
✔✔ To detect potential dangers and respond before an incident occurs.
What should a lifeguard do if a patron has a seizure in the water?
✔✔ Support their head above water, keep them safe, and call for help.
How should a lifeguard respond if a child is missing at the pool?
✔✔ Initiate a water search immediately while alerting staff.
3
Questions and Answers | Latest Version
| 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What is the first action a lifeguard should take in an emergency?
✔✔ Activate the emergency action plan and assess the scene.
How can a lifeguard tell if a swimmer is experiencing a medical emergency?
✔✔ Watch for signs like confusion, sudden weakness, or unresponsiveness.
What is the best way for a lifeguard to prevent dehydration while on duty?
✔✔ Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive sun exposure.
Why should lifeguards perform regular equipment checks?
✔✔ To ensure all rescue tools are functional and ready for emergencies.
What should a lifeguard do if a swimmer suddenly grips their chest and goes underwater?
✔✔ Assume a cardiac emergency, retrieve the swimmer, and start CPR if needed.
1
,How can a lifeguard safely enter the water when a spinal injury is suspected?
✔✔ Use the slide-in entry to avoid unnecessary movement in the water.
What should a lifeguard do after a successful water rescue?
✔✔ Assess the victim’s condition and provide first aid if needed.
Why is it important for lifeguards to document all incidents?
✔✔ To provide accurate records for safety improvements and liability purposes.
What should a lifeguard do if a child is found unconscious near the pool?
✔✔ Check for responsiveness, call for help, and start CPR if necessary.
How should a lifeguard react to a swimmer struggling in deep water?
✔✔ Approach with a rescue tube and keep a safe distance to avoid being grabbed.
Why is teamwork essential during lifeguard shifts?
✔✔ It allows for quick coordination and efficient emergency responses.
2
, What is the best way to clear an obstructed airway in a conscious choking victim?
✔✔ Perform abdominal thrusts until the obstruction is removed.
How can lifeguards prevent overexertion while on duty?
✔✔ Take scheduled breaks, stay hydrated, and maintain physical fitness.
What should a lifeguard do if a swimmer is caught in a strong current?
✔✔ Encourage them to swim parallel to the shore and provide assistance if needed.
Why is it important to scan the pool area continuously?
✔✔ To detect potential dangers and respond before an incident occurs.
What should a lifeguard do if a patron has a seizure in the water?
✔✔ Support their head above water, keep them safe, and call for help.
How should a lifeguard respond if a child is missing at the pool?
✔✔ Initiate a water search immediately while alerting staff.
3
