The front approach is used when the rescuer reaches an active victim who is facing them: the rescuer stops a safe distance away, presents the rescue tube between themselves and the victim, and pushes it into the victim's chest and grasp while maintaining their own position behind the tube. The victim's instinct to climb whatever they touch is directed onto the tube rather than the rescuer. Once the victim is supported and calms, the rescuer levels them and tows toward the exit point. The approach is preceded by victim classification during the swim in, and the rescuer stays ready to release and retreat if the victim lunges past the tube.
This video demonstrates the front rescue approach for an active victim who is facing the rescuer: the rescuer pushes the rescue tube ahead of them into the victim's chest, giving them something buoya…