If you must swim to a victim during a rescue, what should you take with you?

When performing a rescue in the water, taking something that floats is crucial because it provides both you and the victim with additional buoyancy, which can be lifesaving. If the victim is in distress, they may be panicking and could potentially pull you under. By having an object that floats, you can offer them something to hold onto, which can help stabilize them and keep both of you safer in the water.

Carrying a flotation aid, such as a life vest, could be beneficial as it assists in self-preservation, but the option of taking something that floats generally encompasses a broader range of objects, including various types of makeshift flotation devices or buoyant objects. This versatility could be more advantageous in unpredictable rescue situations.

Using a rope can also be valuable, especially for reaching someone from a distance, but it doesn't provide the same immediate support in floating or easing the stress of a panicked swimmer like a buoyant object would. So, focusing on bringing something that floats emphasizes the importance of buoyancy and support during rescue situations.