What is the main consequence of not performing surveillance properly?

Not performing surveillance properly significantly increases the chances of drowning incidents. Effective surveillance is critical in a lifeguard's role, as it involves actively watching the pool area to identify potential problems, such as distressed swimmers or unsafe behaviors. When surveillance is lacking or inattentive, lifeguards may miss early signs of trouble, which can lead to critical delays in response.

Drowning incidents often occur within seconds, and the ability to notice and react promptly can mean the difference between life and death. By maintaining proper surveillance, lifeguards can ensure the safety of all swimmers and take preventive measures to avert emergencies. In contrast, the other outcomes mentioned may relate to the overall operation of the pool but do not have the same immediate life-threatening implications associated with inadequate surveillance. Thus, the most direct and severe consequence of improper surveillance is indeed the heightened risk of drowning.