An adequate number of individuals certified or licensed by a nationally recognized aquatic training agency for the specific type of life guarding required must be present whenever bathers are in the swimming area. Adequate is relative to the swimming area, but must be such that every section of the area can be reasonably scanned above and below water by a lifeguard every 10 seconds, and that the lifeguard can get to a distressed swimmer in that section within 10 seconds. The swimmer to lifeguard ratio should not exceed 25:1.

Lifeguards must be rescue-ready, i.e., clearly identified front and rear as a lifeguard, attired to enter the water without hesitation, equipped with a rescue buoy, airway, gloves, and whistle at all times, and physically poised and alert to the task at hand. Personal activities or ancillary duties must not interfere with guarding. More significant tasks (measuring chemical levels, storing equipment, setting lane lines, etc.) should be done while the individual is not assigned to guard the pool so as not to diminish the attention and protection provided to the swimmers.

Multiple lifeguards must be dispersed and situated so that glare, structural components, and play structures do not compromise their view above or below the water. They should be situated so that their eyes are at least 5' above the water (i.e., standing or in elevated chairs, never sitting in a chair on the pool deck).

Lifeguards must be constantly scanning. Conversation should not interrupt that scanning. Neither should blank stares, turned head, or other distractions because the average distressed child struggles above water less than 20 seconds before sliding underwater.

Lifeguards must be aware of the swimming capabilities and/or physical challenges of every individual in their section in order to ensure their safety. Children should be deep-water tested and appropriately designated. Non-swimmers should not be allowed in water deeper than their chin without immediate and constant supervision by a parent or competent adult.

Aquatic areas must have controlled access. Pools should be enclosed with a fence at least 4' tall or be contained within a building interior space. Doors or gates should be self-closing and self-latching (with gate latches being at least 45" above grade). Entry to the swimming area should be easily monitored by the guards on duty. Natural swimming areas must be defined by floating ropes or other physical barriers.