During family swim, a 5-year-old is swimming with her mom. May the lifeguard fold towels?

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Only if requested
• D. Only during breaks

Answer: (A)

Lifeguards must maintain constant, active supervision of swimmers whenever people are in the water. Folding towels during family swim would be a distraction that takes their attention away from scanning the pool and being ready to respond if someone is in distress. The safety of the swimmers depends on immediate recognition and a quick rescue if needed, so non-surveillance tasks like folding towels aren’t part of the lifeguard’s duties during active supervision. If towels need to be managed, it should be handled by another staff member or during a designated break where coverage is ensured so the lifeguard can keep eyes on the water at all times.