What signal indicates a survivor is in need of immediate rescue?

When assessing the need for immediate rescue, waving arms is a universally recognized signal indicating distress. This action is highly visible and draws attention, suggesting that the individual is unable to maintain themselves in their situation and requires urgent assistance. The frantic movement of waving arms typically conveys a sense of panic and heightens the urgency for a rescue swimmer or search and rescue team to act quickly.

While the other signals such as flashing a light, holding a buoy, or shouting can also indicate distress, they either lack the immediacy of a clear and frantic wave or may not necessarily communicate the condition of the individual as effectively. For example, flashing a light might be used in less urgent situations or as a call for attention, while holding a buoy could signify that the person is stable but possibly in need of help. Shouting can convey distress, but may not be as visually impactful as arm waving, especially in noisy or windy conditions where sounds can be lost. Consequently, arm waving is the most reliable signal for immediate attention and action in a rescue scenario.