Credential demonstrating proficiency in surveillance, prevention, and rescue techniques at pools or beaches.

Advanced credential authorizing the training and certification of new lifeguards.

Standardized hand gestures and whistle codes used by lifeguards to communicate warnings and emergency instructions.

National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA): Coalition of professionals focused on reducing global drowning through research and outreach.

Vast saline bodies of water with tides, waves, and marine life; open-water conditions demand advanced skills and safety protocols.

Long-distance races or swims in natural bodies of water, facing currents, waves, and navigational challenges.

Visual indicators (tiles or signs) showing water depth to inform safe diving and entry practices.

Methods for removing an incapacitated swimmer from the water onto deck or platform.

Public awareness initiative by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to promote pool and spa safety.

A posted code of conduct (no running, no diving in shallow areas, etc.) designed to minimize injury risks around pools.

Man-made basins filled with treated water, either enclosed (indoor) or exposed (outdoor), for swimming and recreation.

Proper Warm-Up/Cool-Down: Dynamic stretches before swimming and gentle movements afterward to reduce injury and aid recovery.

Pull Buoys: Foam buoys placed between the thighs to immobilize the legs, forcing swimmers to focus on upper-body technique.

Social grouping by perceived physical traits (skin color, facial features); lacks biological basis.

Extending a pole, towel, or other object to a swimmer in distress so they can grab on.

Providing breaths to a non-breathing victim to maintain oxygenation until normal breathing resumes.

Keeping life rings, reaching poles, and backboards within easy reach of all aquatic areas.

Narrow, powerful channel of fast-moving water flowing away from shore, requiring swim-parallel escape techniques.

Flowing freshwater courses that present currents, variable depths, and obstacles—requiring special safety considerations.

Guidelines (checking water depth, using proper form) to prevent head, neck, and spinal injuries.