ALA Drowning Prevention & Recognition 3

Question 1

Approximately how long without oxygen does it take for irreversible brain damage to begin in a drowning victim?

Accepted Answer

4–6 minutes

Answer

30–60 seconds

Answer

10–15 minutes

Answer

8–10 minutes

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT a recognized risk factor for drowning?

Accepted Answer

Swimming in a properly chlorinated pool

Answer

Lack of swimming ability

Answer

Alcohol or drug consumption near water

Answer

Absence of pool barriers such as fencing

Question 3

A patron is floating face-down and completely motionless in the center of the pool. How should this patron be classified?

Accepted Answer

Passive drowning victim requiring immediate rescue and resuscitation

Answer

Distressed swimmer who needs verbal encouragement

Answer

Active drowning victim in the early stage of struggle

Answer

Resting swimmer practicing a floating drill

Question 4

What is the primary on-deck communication signal used by lifeguards to activate the Emergency Action Plan during a drowning?

Accepted Answer

A whistle signal

Answer

A public address (PA) system announcement

Answer

A telephone call to the front desk

Answer

Pre-arranged hand signals to other lifeguards

Question 5

Which approach is most effective for preventing drowning in an open water swimming environment?

Accepted Answer

Establishing clearly marked swimming zones with dedicated lifeguard coverage

Answer

Posting warning signs at all water entry points

Answer

Requiring all swimmers to wear personal flotation devices at all times

Answer

Restricting swimming to daylight hours only

Question 6

Which swimmer behavior should MOST immediately alert a lifeguard to a possible drowning situation?

Accepted Answer

A swimmer whose head is low in the water with little or no forward movement

Answer

A swimmer completing flip turns at the wall

Answer

A swimmer floating on their back with eyes closed

Answer

A swimmer resting at the pool wall between laps

Question 7

Under what condition is it appropriate for a lifeguard to leave their assigned surveillance zone?

Accepted Answer

Only when another trained lifeguard assumes full coverage responsibility for the zone

Answer

When a patron outside the zone requests assistance

Answer

During low-attendance periods when very few patrons are present

Answer

When the lifeguard must retrieve rescue equipment stored nearby