How should lifeguards respond to a suspected spinal injury in the water?

When responding to a suspected spinal injury in the water, it is crucial to stabilize the head and neck of the victim immediately. This action minimizes the risk of further injury to the spinal cord and brain by preventing any movements that could exacerbate the injury. Stabilizing the head and neck allows lifeguards to protect the injured person while they call for additional help, such as medical personnel or specialized rescue teams.

Initiating this stabilization technique ensures that the victim remains as still as possible, which is vital in preventing further damage during the rescue process. Once help arrives, trained professionals can safely assist in removing the individual from the water using appropriate techniques and equipment designed for spinal injuries, such as a backboard.

Other methods such as removing the victim from the water immediately, performing a quick rescue, or encouraging the victim to swim to safety could lead to worsening the injury or jeopardizing their safety.