Opinion Imagine a crowded pool on a summer afternoon, one lifeguard, lots of swimmers, and a single moment of distraction. Is this still an acceptable standard of care in 2025? Across the country, many aquatic facilities continue to rely on single lifeguard coverage. But evolving standards, and real-world incidents suggest that this model may no longer be sufficient—or safe. Some states and local jurisdictions mandate two lifeguards for public pools, especially those with hig