What does "reach, throw, don't go" mean?

The phrase "reach, throw, don't go" is a fundamental principle in water rescue situations. It emphasizes the importance of attempting to assist someone in distress without putting yourself in danger.

The correct answer highlights three crucial components of this approach:

1. Reach: This involves extending a hand, pole, or any available object to the individual in distress, allowing you to assist them without having to enter the water. This technique minimizes risk by keeping you on stable ground.

2. Throw: If reaching is not possible, you should throw a flotation device, such as a life ring or rope. This provides the victim with something to hold onto, enabling them to stay afloat while you maintain a safe distance from the water.

3. Don't go: This part of the phrase emphasizes the critical aspect of not entering the water yourself. Many rescues can lead to two victims in distress, as the rescuer might become overwhelmed or unable to return to safety.

By following this guideline, you can effectively assist a person in trouble while reducing the risk of harm to yourself and ensuring a safe rescue scenario.