What constitutes negligence in a lifeguarding context?

Negligence in a lifeguarding context refers to a failure to act responsibly and in accordance with established standards of care, which can lead to harm or injury. Providing assistance beyond one's training is considered negligence because a lifeguard is expected to operate within the boundaries of their training to ensure the safety of individuals. If a lifeguard attempts to perform procedures or provide interventions for which they are not adequately trained or certified, this could lead to further injury or complications.

This behavior can be viewed as a deviation from the duty of care owed to the individuals in their charge, which must involve acting safely and responsibly based on their level of training. On the other hand, following standard protocols and properly reporting emergencies are critical actions that align with the expectations of a lifeguard's role and demonstrate responsible behavior, reducing the risk of negligence. Delaying treatment for injuries also falls outside responsible practices and may constitute negligence, but the key factor here lies specifically in providing assistance beyond what one has been trained to handle.