What is a key safety measure instructors should emphasize during lessons?

Emphasizing the importance of listening carefully to the instructor's directions is crucial for ensuring safety during swimming lessons. By paying close attention to instructions, students can better understand techniques and safety protocols that protect them from potential dangers in the water. For example, instructors may provide guidance on how to safely enter and exit the pool, how to perform specific strokes, and what to do in case of an emergency. When students are focused on the instructor’s cues, they are more likely to follow safety guidelines, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

In contrast, the other options do not prioritize safety in swimming lessons. Racing to improve speed can encourage reckless behavior and increase the likelihood of accidents, as swimmers might push themselves beyond their limits without adequate attention to safety. Prolonged swimming sessions without breaks can lead to fatigue, significantly increasing the risk of drowning or injury. Ignoring distractions to focus on swimming is not inherently safe, as it may cause swimmers to miss crucial instructions or warnings from their instructor and may prevent them from responding effectively to unforeseen circumstances in the swimming environment. Thus, active engagement and attentiveness to the instructor are vital aspects of swim safety that cannot be overlooked.