What are the three primary areas to monitor while lifeguarding?

The three primary areas to monitor while lifeguarding include the pool deck, water's surface, and surrounding area because these elements are crucial for ensuring the safety of all patrons in and around the pool.

Monitoring the pool deck helps lifeguards identify any potential hazards or unsafe behaviors such as running or horseplay, which can lead to injuries. Keeping an eye on the water's surface is essential for detecting swimmers who may be in distress, as they may not always be visible from below the surface. Finally, the surrounding area must be observed to ensure that anyone entering or exiting the pool is safe and that no unauthorized individuals are posing a risk to swimmers. These combined focal points provide a comprehensive approach to surveillance, assisting lifeguards in maintaining a secure environment.

The other choices feature areas that are not as directly related to the core responsibilities of lifeguarding. For instance, locker rooms and staff lounges, while important for facility operations, do not directly pertain to the lifeguard's immediate watch over swimmers. This focus on safety and awareness is vital for the role of a lifeguard.