What should be included in incident documentation by lifeguards?

In incident documentation, it is crucial to include detailed observations, all actions taken, and recommendations for future reference because this information provides a comprehensive overview of the incident, which is vital for several reasons.

First, detailed observations capture the circumstances and behaviors involved in the incident, allowing for a clear understanding of what happened. This can be useful for internal reviews, training purposes, and assessing the effectiveness of the lifeguard's interventions.

Secondly, documenting all actions taken is essential for accountability and transparency. It allows for an assessment of whether the proper procedures were followed and helps protect lifeguards and their employers in case of legal scrutiny.

Lastly, recommendations for future reference can facilitate improvements in policies and training methods. This proactive approach can enhance overall safety and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future, benefiting both the staff and patrons.

The other options do not provide sufficient detail or context, which can lead to gaps in understanding and hinder the ability to learn from the incident. Therefore, thorough documentation is necessary to ensure a complete record for future analysis and improvement.