NPLQ Intervention and Rescue Skills 2

Question 1

What is the 'reach and throw' rescue method, and why is it the preferred first choice?

Accepted Answer

Extending a rescue aid from poolside without entering the water, minimising risk to the rescuer

Answer

Swimming to a casualty and throwing a rope after reaching them

Answer

Throwing the casualty a flotation device from 20 metres away

Answer

Reaching into the water with both hands to grab a drowning person

Question 2

How should a pool lifeguard enter the water when performing a swimming rescue of a conscious but panicking casualty?

Accepted Answer

Use a compact jump entry (feet first) to allow immediate visual assessment after surfacing

Answer

Dive head-first for maximum speed

Answer

Slide in from the side quietly to avoid alarming the casualty

Answer

Use a racing dive for the fastest possible approach

Question 3

During a tow to the pool wall, what is the key consideration when approaching a panicking conscious casualty?

Accepted Answer

Approach from behind or the side to avoid being grabbed and pulled under

Answer

Approach directly from the front at full swimming speed

Answer

Ask the casualty to stay still before making contact

Answer

Swim under the casualty to push them to the surface

Question 4

What is the purpose of the 'spine board' (backboard) in aquatic rescue?

Accepted Answer

To immobilise and support the whole body during extraction from the water when spinal injury is suspected

Answer

To keep the casualty warm during extraction

Answer

To provide buoyancy for an unconscious casualty

Answer

To allow CPR to be performed in the water

Question 5

Which body position is recommended for towing an unconscious non-breathing casualty to the pool wall?

Accepted Answer

Horizontal supine, with the face maintained above water throughout the tow

Answer

Vertical position, with the head above water

Answer

Face-down, horizontal

Answer

In any position that allows the fastest tow

Question 6

What is the 'defences against drowning' model and why is it important for NPLQ lifeguards?

Accepted Answer

A layered risk management framework: bather behaviour, pool design, supervision, and emergency response

Answer

A physical training regimen to improve swim rescue stamina

Answer

A legal defence strategy for lifeguards following an incident

Answer

A set of pool rules displayed on signage