Must at least one adult counted in the swimming ratio be able to swim and perform a water rescue?

• A. Yes, at least one adult must be able to swim and perform a water rescue.
• B. No, swimming ability is not required.
• C. Only if there is no lifeguard on site.
• D. All adults in the ratio must be trained in water rescue.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that safety around water relies on having a rescuer ready at all times. In the swimming supervision ratio, at least one adult must be able to swim and perform a water rescue. This ensures immediate, capable action if someone is in distress—reaching the person quickly, rescuing them, and getting them to safety without waiting for help. It’s not necessary for every adult to have this ability, but having one trained swimmer-rescuer on site covers the most critical safety need. That’s why this option is the best fit: it balances practicality with an essential capability to prevent drowning. It wouldn’t be correct to say swimming ability isn’t required, or that it only matters if there’s no lifeguard, or that all adults must be trained, because those don’t align with the safety standard described.