In water rescue protocol, what is the recommended approach for a passive victim versus a distressed swimmer?

• A. Passive victim: ignore until EMS arrives; Distressed swimmer: perform rescue breaths first.
• B. Passive victim: prioritize reaching or throwing assist; Distressed swimmer: start with reach/throw and escalate to contact/rescue if needed.
• C. Passive victim: immediately start with direct contact rescue; Distressed swimmer: use only reaching from shore.
• D. Passive victim: use only throw lines; Distressed swimmer: perform rescue breaths first.

Answer: (B)

In water rescue, the safest and quickest first step is to use noncontact methods whenever possible. For a passive victim, who isn’t moving or breathing, extend a reach or throw a buoyant aid from shore or the deck to bring them to safety without entering the water. Directly entering the water to make contact is reserved for when the victim cannot be reached or pulled in from a distance, and you must use proper technique to avoid putting yourself at risk.

For a distressed swimmer who is still conscious but struggling, start with reaching or throwing assistance from a safe position. If that won’t reach them or they’re too far away, escalate to a contact rescue to bring them in. After the victim is brought to safety, assess breathing and provide rescue breaths or CPR if needed.