If a patron is exhibiting signs of distress in the water, what should a lifeguard's first action be?

When a patron is exhibiting signs of distress in the water, the lifeguard's first action should be to intervene and perform a rescue. The priority in this situation is the safety and well-being of the individual in distress. Signs of distress can escalate quickly into a more serious situation, such as a potential drowning, so immediate action is crucial.

By intervening directly, the lifeguard can provide the necessary assistance to the patron. This might involve reaching them if they are within reach or entering the water if it is safe to do so. Acting swiftly can help prevent the situation from worsening and can potentially save the individual's life.

The other options pose risks or delays that could endanger the patron. While waiting and observing could be part of ongoing assessment, it is not appropriate when immediate distress is evident. Calling for backup is important but should be done concurrently with assisting the distressed patron, rather than postponing action. Throwing a flotation device can be helpful, but it may not be sufficient if the person is unable to grab it or if they are struggling underwater. Taking immediate action aligns with lifeguard training, which emphasizes proactive intervention in emergency situations.