Wear the rescue tube.(LETTERS)(Letter to the editor)

I appreciate the focus on lifeguarding and lifeguard management in the May issue. Both articles, "Managing Your Best" and "Guarding Against Misconceptions," were well-written and informative.

I was, however, disappointed with the photograph chosen to accompany the "Managing Your Best" article. The Red Cross lifeguard training program clearly indicates that lifeguards must have their rescue tube on them not just resting on their chairs.

This is the standard of care across the industry. In a well-managed aquatics facility, the lifeguard pictured should be corrected for not properly using his essential rescue equipment. He is not prepared to make a rescue because he would have to take the time to get his rescue tube and put it on before entering the water. This would also make him take his focus off the person in trouble while getting his tube.

As stated in the article, it is an important lifeguard management issue ...