Red Cross Lifeguard Practice Test

When completing an incident report, what is crucial to include?

1. All factual information about what was seen, heard, and actions taken.

2. Your analysis of how the incident occurred.

3. Witness opinions compiled into a single report.

4. Preventing the victim from leaving until the report is signed.

The correct answer is: All factual information about what was seen, heard, and actions taken.

Including all factual information about what was seen, heard, and actions taken is crucial when completing an incident report because accuracy and objectivity are paramount in documenting events. The incident report serves as an official record that may be referenced later for investigations, legal proceedings, or internal reviews. By focusing on facts rather than personal opinions or interpretations, you ensure that the report reflects a clear and unbiased account of the incident. This foundational approach helps to maintain the integrity of the report and ensures that anyone reading it later, such as colleagues, supervisors, or investigators, receives an accurate portrayal of what transpired. It also helps to avoid potential legal issues that might arise from subjective interpretations or assumptions about the incident.