What protocol should be followed if visibility is compromised in water rescue scenarios?

In scenarios where visibility is compromised during water rescues, waiting for clearer conditions is crucial for ensuring the safety of both rescuers and victims. When visibility is low, the risks associated with entering the water increase significantly. Rescuers may not be able to accurately assess the situation, identify potential hazards, or locate victims effectively. Additionally, a compromised view may lead to disorientation or separation from the rescue team.

Waiting for clearer conditions allows for a safer approach, enabling teams to determine the safest tactics for the rescue operation. It also provides the opportunity for rescuers to better assess the situation without putting themselves at unnecessary risk. Ensuring a clear line of sight can also help in maintaining communication among team members, enhancing coordination and effectiveness in executing the rescue plan.

While proceeding with caution, searching deeper, and using high-visibility gear may have their own merits in different contexts, they do not address the immediate concerns raised by poor visibility as effectively as allowing time for conditions to improve does.