Swimmers at risk of becoming distressed may display which of the following?

• A. Early warning signs
• B. Panic only
• C. No signs
• D. Immediate rescue

Answer: (A)

Distressed swimmers often show early warning signs that indicate they are at increasing risk, even before full panic sets in. These warning signs signal fatigue or struggling in the water and tell you help is needed soon, not necessarily immediately only when they begin to panic. Recognizing these cues allows a proactive response—positioning yourself to assist, readying a reach or throw, and keeping the swimmer within sight while you monitor progress.

Panic is possible, but it isn’t the only way someone at risk might appear; some may still appear to be managing briefly while others might exhibit no obvious signs yet still be in trouble, and waiting for an outright emergency can delay saving time. Immediate rescue is reserved for when the swimmer is unable to stay afloat or is in imminent danger.