Make a Splash with the 2025 Red Cross Lifeguard Practice Test – Dive into Success!

Before approaching an injured patron, it is essential to assess the scene to ensure the safety of both the rescuer and the victim. Sizing up the scene typically involves several critical steps aimed at gathering information about the situation.

Using all your senses to determine if the scene is safe involves observing the environment for hazards, such as water on the ground, potential electrical risks, or aggressive bystanders. This assessment is vital to protect yourself and others before providing assistance. Forming an initial impression allows you to quickly gauge the severity of the incident and prioritize your actions based on the circumstances you observe.

Putting on appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is also vital, particularly in scenes where there may be blood or other bodily fluids. This precaution helps to minimize the risk of infection or exposure to harmful substances.

Initiating a primary assessment before completing these critical pre-approach steps could compromise both the rescuer's safety and effective care for the patron. The primary assessment involves checking the injured patron's responsiveness and vital signs but should only be done after the scene has been evaluated and deemed safe. Thus, starting the primary assessment without first sizing up the scene is not appropriate protocol.