How should a lifeguard reassure a panicked swimmer?

For a lifeguard, reassuring a panicked swimmer effectively is crucial to ensuring their safety and well-being. Speaking calmly to the swimmer serves several important functions. It helps to reduce the swimmer's anxiety by providing a steady and soothing presence. When the lifeguard communicates in a calm manner, it can help the swimmer regain their composure and focus on following instructions.

Instructing the swimmer on how to stay afloat is essential, as it equips them with immediate actions they can take to keep themselves safe. This guidance not only provides practical help but also instills a sense of control in the panicked swimmer, which can often lead to a reduction in panic.

Other options may not effectively address the situation. Waving a swimmer down could be misinterpreted and might not provide the necessary reassurance or direction. Jumping into the water could pose additional risks to both the swimmer and the lifeguard, while not engaging with panicked swimmers could lead to a lack of support in a critical moment. Thus, calmly instructing the swimmer is the most effective approach to reassuring them and promoting safety.