If your buddy is unable to swim on his own, you can:

If your buddy is unable to swim on his own, you can:

• A. Tow him on the surface.
• B. Tow him underwater.
• C. Both the first and second answers are correct.
• D. None of the above.

Answer: (A)

When a buddy can’t swim, the safest approach is to keep them at the surface and tow them there. Surface towing ensures their airway stays above the water, you can continuously monitor their condition, and you remain in direct control and visibility of them. It also allows you to use flotation and signaling more effectively, making it easier to guide both of you to safety. Towing underwater is not recommended because you lose contact more easily, visibility can be poor, and you can’t promptly check or assist with breathing or fatigue. There’s a higher risk of entanglement or losing the buddy in currents or waves, and you won’t be able to respond to changing conditions as quickly. So, the best option is to tow the non-swimmer on the surface.

When a buddy can’t swim, the safest approach is to keep them at the surface and tow them there. Surface towing ensures their airway stays above the water, you can continuously monitor their condition, and you remain in direct control and visibility of them. It also allows you to use flotation and signaling more effectively, making it easier to guide both of you to safety.

Towing underwater is not recommended because you lose contact more easily, visibility can be poor, and you can’t promptly check or assist with breathing or fatigue. There’s a higher risk of entanglement or losing the buddy in currents or waves, and you won’t be able to respond to changing conditions as quickly.

So, the best option is to tow the non-swimmer on the surface.