When should a lifeguard call for emergency medical services?

A lifeguard should call for emergency medical services when a victim has a life-threatening condition or requires advanced care because this ensures that the individual receives the appropriate and timely medical intervention needed to stabilize their condition. Life-threatening situations can include but are not limited to, severe bleeding, unconsciousness, difficulty in breathing, or any other critical health concern that cannot be adequately addressed by on-scene first aid alone.

In scenarios where the situation is less critical, such as a minor injury, medical services may not be necessary, and first aid can be provided by the lifeguard on site. Overcrowded beaches or insufficient first aid supplies are also not reasons for calling emergency services; these factors may require logistical management but do not inherently trigger the need for advanced medical intervention. Recognizing the severity of a victim's condition and acting swiftly is crucial to improving outcomes in emergencies, making it essential for lifeguards to be trained to recognize when professional medical assistance is warranted.