How should a lifeguard react to lightning in the area?

When lightning is present in the area, a lifeguard should prioritize the safety of all beachgoers by clearing the beach and seeking shelter. This is crucial because lightning poses a severe risk, especially near water, where the likelihood of being struck by lightning increases significantly due to water's conductivity.

Instructing everyone to leave the water is essential as it prevents individuals from being in a vulnerable position during a lightning storm. Seeking shelter, preferably in a substantial building or a vehicle, helps reduce the risk of injury significantly.

Monitoring the water or alerting beachgoers to stay in the water would not only expose them to danger but can also lead to tragic outcomes, and using lightning rods, while a sound engineering concept for buildings and certain environments, does not apply effectively to an open beach scenario where immediate evacuation is required.

Overall, the reaction to a lightning threat must prioritize safety through immediate action to get everyone off the beach and into a safe location.