Final answer:
In the case of an active drowning victim, the lifeguard should use a compact jump for deep water or a stride jump/slide-in entry for shallower waters. It's crucial to use a rescue buoy and extend it to the victim. CPR should only be administered after the victim is safely out of the water and on a stable surface.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you spot an active drowning victim as a lifeguard, the appropriate entry is a compact jump if the water is at least 5 feet deep and you are off an elevated stand. If it's less than 5 feet or you're not elevated, use a stride jump or slide-in entry to avoid injury.
It's important to clear the area of other swimmers and ensure you're not putting yourself at risk. Once in the water, approach the victim with a rescue tube or buoy, typically extending it to them, so they can grab onto it and be pulled to safety.
It is a myth that you can tell when someone is drowning by them shouting and waving for help; in reality, they are often silently struggling and cannot call out or wave effectively.
Upon successfully rescuing a victim from the water, immediate CPR should only be administered if they are unresponsive and not breathing on stable ground. Contrary to a common myth, administering CPR in the water is not effective. After ensuring the person has been removed from the water and is on a safe surface, check for breathing and pulse, and then begin CPR following the proper guidelines, if necessary.