Spent two summers in the lifeguard chair, never had to go in after anyone. But was trained to always be watching for those signs. Or just watching, everyone, all the time. A swimmer count every few minutes, watching who goes in and who goes out. Actually, it is not only the job, it keeps you from losing your mind as you listen to "Marco"....."Polo" for hours on end.

But the other thing to remember: once you get to the drowning victim, be very carefull. Once they have you to grab onto, grab they will. Rescue techniques involve not only putting the swimmer in a carry hold, but getting out of any hold they might put on you in their panic. The first part of getting out of a drowning swimmer's panic grasp is to just go underwater, they will let go, and then you can position them for your rescue hold. And bring flotation with you, if possible. Once calmed they will hold on to the flotation.

And teach the kids to swim as early as possible. Toddlers can swim, with instruction. Don't rely on those stupid flotation armbands. If your kid can't swim without them, then they cannot swim. They were not allowed at the pools I worked at for that very reason.