How should a surf lifeguard execute a rescue in the water?

Executing a rescue in the water successfully requires a lifeguard to use appropriate equipment and techniques, which is why the use of a rescue board or tube is the correct approach. This equipment enhances the lifeguard's ability to reach the victim efficiently and safely, providing both buoyancy and a means to support the distressed swimmer once they are reached.

Using a rescue board or tube ensures that the lifeguard can approach the victim without becoming a potential hazard themselves, such as by creating turbulence that could panic the swimmer. Additionally, these tools allow for a safer transport of the victim back to shore, minimizing the risks for both the rescuer and the person in distress.

In contrast, simply swimming blindly towards the victim could lead to disorientation or cause the rescuer to tire before reaching them. Throwing a life preserver can be an effective initial action, but it does not fully address the situation if the victim is incapacitated or unable to grab the preserver. Calling for help can be part of a rescue strategy, but it doesn't directly assist the victim in urgent need of immediate assistance. Therefore, using a rescue board or tube is the most effective and safest option for executing a water rescue.