Which stage of drowning is considered the best time to rescue a guest?

The surprise stage of drowning is characterized by the victim's initial reaction to being submerged or struggling in water. At this moment, the person may not yet be aware of their predicament, and instinctive responses can lead to panic and attempts to breathe in water. This stage presents an opportunity for a lifeguard to intervene because the victim is still capable of being dragged back to safety before the situation escalates.

In contrast, during respiratory arrest, unconsciousness, or cardiac arrest, the situation has deteriorated significantly, making rescue more complicated and time-sensitive. In these conditions, the victim may have already lost consciousness or may experience a critical state where immediate CPR or advanced medical assistance is required. The effectiveness of a rescue operation diminishes as the situation progresses through these later stages. Thus, the surprise stage is indeed the most opportune time for a lifeguard to perform a rescue effectively.