When is a lifeguard permitted to leave their post?

A lifeguard is permitted to leave their post during a preapproved break or shift change because this is the only situation where proper procedures and safety protocols are followed. During scheduled breaks or shifts, lifeguards typically communicate with their supervisors and ensure that another qualified lifeguard is present to monitor the area, maintaining the safety of swimmers.

In contrast, abandoning a post during a sudden breakdown of equipment could potentially leave swimmers unattended during a critical time, which poses a safety risk. Leaving the post because they feel tired is not an acceptable reason; lifeguards must always be alert and attentive while on duty to respond to emergencies. Additionally, relying on the idea that they can leave whenever all swimmers are out of the water fails to consider that situations can change quickly, and it is essential for lifeguards to maintain vigilance until formally relieved by another lifeguard. Therefore, the policies governing lifeguard duties emphasize maintaining safety and proper communication when leaving a post.