What should be done if a conscious swimmer is in distress?

When a conscious swimmer is in distress, it is essential to communicate cautiously and provide assistance to ensure their safety and well-being. This involves several key actions. First, directly address the swimmer to confirm that they can hear you and understand you're there to help. Use calm and reassuring language to reduce any panic they might be feeling.

Offering assistance can take several forms, depending on the situation. It may involve providing flotation devices or guiding them to safety while ensuring you maintain a safe distance if their distress might pose a risk to you. By actively engaging with the swimmer, you can assess their level of distress and tailor your response accordingly, which is crucial for effective intervention.

The other options fail to prioritize the immediate and appropriate care needed in such situations. Ignoring the situation or leaving the swimmer to figure it out could lead to escalation of distress and possible drowning. While calling for help is an important step, it is most effective when coupled with direct communication and support, ensuring the swimmer feels safe and supported until help arrives or they are able to regain control.