What does the 10/20 goal of proper surveillance entail?

The 10/20 goal of proper surveillance is designed to enhance lifeguard effectiveness in monitoring a swimming area. This guideline specifies that a lifeguard should take no more than 10 seconds to visually scan their entire assigned zone, ensuring that all swimmers are accounted for and safe. Following this quick scan, the lifeguard should be able to reach the farthest point of that zone within 20 seconds if an emergency arises. This approach emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and prepared to respond quickly to any incidents, minimizing the risk of drowning or injury.

The structure of this guideline underscores the balance between thorough scanning and rapid response time, essential for promoting safety in pool environments. This crucial timing helps establish a proactive approach to lifeguarding, ensuring that lifeguards can effectively monitor activities and react promptly when needed.