Written Lifeguarding Practice Test 2025 - Free Lifeguard Practice Questions and Study Guide

The critical action that lifeguards must take during a swimming competition is to stay vigilant and ready to respond to emergencies. Lifeguards are responsible for the safety of all swimmers, especially in a dynamic environment like a competition where multiple participants may be racing simultaneously. By maintaining constant awareness of the water and the swimmers, lifeguards can quickly identify any signs of distress or emergency situations, such as a swimmer struggling or needing assistance. This readiness to act is essential for the immediate and effective response needed to prevent injuries or potential drownings.

Other options, while they may seem relevant, do not encompass the primary responsibilities of a lifeguard in this setting. Monitoring only the final lap could lead to missing emergencies that may happen earlier in the race. Requiring all swimmers to wear life jackets does not apply in competitive swimming environments where it is standard practice for swimmers to compete without them. Allowing coaches to supervise from the poolside undermines the lifeguard's critical role; lifeguards hold the responsibility to oversee safety, and coaches are focused on performance rather than ensuring swimmer safety in the water.