Under what circumstances is a lifeguard authorized to clear the water?

A lifeguard is authorized to clear the water when conditions pose an immediate threat to safety. This ensures the well-being of all individuals in the swimming area, as maintaining a safe environment is the primary duty of a lifeguard. Immediate threats could range from severe weather conditions, such as lightning or thunderstorms, to hazardous situations like overcrowding, aggressive behavior among patrons, or the presence of dangerous aquatic life. By clearing the water under these circumstances, the lifeguard actively prevents potential accidents or injuries, prioritizing the safety of everyone.

Other scenarios like breaks, swimmer requests, or noticing an injury do not inherently demand immediate action to clear the water for safety reasons. While it's crucial to manage breaks and respond to injuries, the clear and direct authorization to clear the water is specifically tied to immediate threats that could compromise safety.