When should the assistance required signal be used?

The assistance required signal should be used before going out to rescue someone to ensure that additional support is alerted to the situation. This signal is crucial as it communicates to other lifeguards and beachgoers that there is a potential emergency that may need immediate attention or backup. By signaling for assistance prior to initiating a rescue, you enhance safety for yourself and the person in distress, ensuring that there is a coordinated response.

In situations like a rescue, where time is of the essence, clarifying that you're about to engage in a potentially risky endeavor allows the team to prepare properly. This could involve gathering equipment, alerting nearby lifeguards, or preparing for additional rescues if necessary.

Using the signal during a routine check, after rescuing someone, or when leaving the beach does not facilitate the timely communication of the emergency at hand, thereby diminishing the chances of a successful rescue operation. Each of those scenarios focuses on different aspects of lifeguarding, but they do not reflect the immediate need for assistance that occurs right before a rescue situation.