Lifeguards: A Forgotten Aspect of Drowning Prevention
Author Information
Author(s): David C Schwebel, Heather N Jones, Erika Holder, Francesca Marciani
Primary Institution: University of Alabama at Birmingham
Hypothesis
How can deaths in lifeguarded swimming areas be prevented?
Conclusion
Lifeguard surveillance is generally high quality but can have potentially fatal lapses.
Supporting Evidence
- Lifeguards were attending to their assigned area 91% of the time.
- Regular training sessions can increase lifeguard surveillance and decrease swimmer risk-taking.
- Frequent role-playing improves performance under stressful emergency situations.
Takeaway
Lifeguards need regular training and practice to stay alert and prevent drownings, as they can easily miss someone in trouble.
Methodology
The study involved observational research and proposed three strategies to improve lifeguard performance.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in observational research due to the nature of unannounced visits.
Limitations
The study does not provide specific quantitative data on lifeguard performance or drowning incidents.
Participant Demographics
Lifeguards, primarily young and inexperienced.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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