What should lifeguards do if they encounter a missing child?

The most effective course of action for lifeguards encountering a missing child is to follow the facility's emergency plan for missing persons. A well-defined emergency plan ensures a systematic and organized response to the situation, increasing the chances of locating the child swiftly and safely.

Typically, such plans outline specific roles, communication protocols, and procedures to follow, including notifying appropriate authorities, starting a search in designated areas, and coordinating with other staff members. This approach minimizes the risk of confusion and can help activate resources like additional staff or emergency services, which are crucial in promptly addressing the situation.

Involving everyone in a structured manner, as defined by the emergency plan, also helps ensure that searches are comprehensive and effective. In contrast, searching alone or asking random patrons for help could lead to ineffective searching, miscommunication, and even exacerbating the situation. The facility's procedures are designed to have trained personnel respond in a manner that prioritizes safety and efficiency, which is crucial in emergency situations like a missing child.