Questions and Answers
What is the purpose of the Code X signal used by lifeguards?
Which search method involves lifeguards using scuba gear to search underwater?
During the recovery of a viable victim, what is the first action lifeguards should take?
What action is typically taken when transitioning from emergency search to body recovery?
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What should lifeguards do when marking a search zone after receiving a Code X signal?
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Study Notes
Shallow Water Search
- Initiated for missing persons in water areas not visible from lifeguard chair.
- Overseen by primary lifeguard or manager/supervisor.
- Rescuers align perpendicular to shore, starting at current's direction (e.g., South for North-South current).
- Rescuers hold hands, walk forward under command, scanning for submerged victims.
- In murky water, foot and leg sweeping techniques are used to feel for victims.
- The primary guard directs the search around clear swimming areas.
- After shallow search completion, transition to deep-water line search.
Deep Water Line Search
- Conducted by lifeguards after shallow water search, patrons assist only in shallow areas.
- Line conductor (beach manager/head lifeguard) remains in waist-deep water with a rescue tube.
- Rescuers maintain an arm's length distance and line up perpendicularly to shore.
- Upon command, rescuers dive, swim three strokes underwater, then surface while scanning for victims.
- Line conductor ensures safety and the organization of the search pattern.
- Search continues until entire area covered or directed to stop by EFD Command.
Determining the Emergency Search Period
- Emergency search duration typically set at one hour.
- One-hour is intentionally longer than usual successful resuscitation timeframe due to variable factors.
- USLA acknowledges a “two-minute window” of optimal recovery after submersion, post which chances decline rapidly.
Search Procedures
- Valid missing swimmer reports trigger a coordinated search process among lifeguards.
- Initial documentation includes estimated time of submersion and last seen location.
- Immediate notification to supervisors and EFD is crucial.
- The last seen point determined using cross bearings from stationary objects.
Code X
- Code X is a signal (arms crossed overhead) indicating the last known position of a victim.
- Facilitates communication between lifeguards in water and those on shore.
- Onshore lifeguards confirm signal and notify EFD through Dispatch.
- Establish a search zone, possibly marked with a buoy, and initiate the search in indicated area.
Three General Search Methods
- In-Water Search: Lifeguards wade and swim in shallow and deep waters; utilize systematic searching.
- Surface Search: Lifeguards use boats, paddleboards, or helicopters to scan from above, effectiveness contingent on depth and visibility.
- Underwater Search: Dive teams employ systematic techniques with scuba gear to explore submerged areas.
Recovery Operations
- Immediate resuscitation efforts are vital if a viable victim is recovered within the set timeframe.
- Body recovery phase initiated per EFD Command protocols and investigation begins.
- Focus on rescuer safety heightened, with some lifeguards returning to regular duties.
- Lifeguards collect evidence and document observations; sensitivity to incident circumstances is critical.
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Description
This quiz covers crucial lifeguard search techniques for locating missing persons in both shallow and deep water. Learn how to execute effective searches while working as a team under the guidance of the primary lifeguard. The focus is on safety procedures and proper search algorithms.