To recognize distress or drowning, which three crucial observation skills must you continuously perform?

The correct answer highlights three essential skills needed to recognize distress or drowning situations effectively. Scanning is the act of continuously surveying the area for any signs of trouble or unusual behavior in the water. This is vital because drowning can happen quickly and often silently, making vigilant observation crucial.

Targeting involves identifying specific individuals who may be in distress, focusing your attention on them to determine if their behavior indicates a need for assistance. This skill requires not just looking, but also understanding what typical swimming behavior looks like versus what distress looks like.

Assessing is the process of evaluating the situation and deciding the appropriate course of action based on the observations made. This might include determining if a rescue is necessary and what form it should take, which is critical for ensuring safety.

Together, these three skills—scan, target, and assess—create a comprehensive approach to identifying and responding to possible drowning incidents, making them essential for lifeguards.