NPLQ Pool Safety and Lifeguard 5

Question 1

What is the PRIMARY function of a lifeguard rescue tube during a water rescue?

Accepted Answer

To provide buoyancy support to the victim while keeping the rescuer safe

Answer

To be used as a flotation device for the rescuing lifeguard only

Answer

To assist the lifeguard in swimming faster to the victim

Answer

To signal other lifeguards of the rescue in progress

Question 2

A pool patron who is a weak swimmer enters the deep end and begins showing signs of distress. They are treading water but calling for help. This is classified as:

Accepted Answer

A distressed swimmer situation

Answer

A passive drowning situation

Answer

An active drowning situation

Answer

A non-emergency situation

Question 3

Which type of spinal injury mechanism is MOST common in aquatic environments?

Accepted Answer

Compression fractures from impact (hyperflexion/hyperextension)

Answer

Rotational injuries from swimming strokes

Answer

Crush injuries from pool equipment

Answer

Penetrating injuries from pool surfaces

Question 4

How should a lifeguard position themselves on a raised lifeguard stand to optimize surveillance?

Accepted Answer

Standing or sitting upright with eyes covering the full zone, including blind spots

Answer

Seated with legs dangling and body facing the deep end only

Answer

Standing at the edge of the stand leaning toward the water

Answer

Seated low to reduce wind resistance and sun exposure

Question 5

When approaching a pool to begin a shift, which pre-shift check is MOST safety-critical for a lifeguard?

Accepted Answer

Verifying all rescue equipment is present, accessible, and in working condition

Answer

Confirming the pool temperature is comfortable for patrons

Answer

Reviewing the previous shift's incident log for patron complaints

Answer

Checking that the pool schedule posted is current

Question 6

Under NPLQ guidelines, when should a lifeguard perform a pool bottom check?

Accepted Answer

Before opening and periodically throughout operational hours

Answer

Only when a patron reports something on the pool floor

Answer

At the end of each day after all patrons have left

Answer

Once per week as part of routine maintenance

Question 7

Which of the following BEST explains why lifeguards should avoid extended conversations with patrons while on surveillance duty?

Accepted Answer

Conversation diverts attention and reduces scanning effectiveness, increasing response time

Answer

It is unprofessional and may embarrass the facility

Answer

Patrons may distract lifeguards from administering pool rules

Answer

It wastes time that should be spent checking chemical levels