Why are night operations considered a hazard in water rescues?

Night operations during water rescues are considered hazardous primarily due to the reduced visibility that darkness brings. When the environment is poorly lit, rescuers cannot see potential hazards in the water or on the shore, making it difficult to navigate safely. This limitation can lead to misjudgments about distances, the presence of obstacles, and the condition of the water itself. Rescuers may find it challenging to assess risks accurately, leading to increased danger both for themselves and for those they are trying to rescue.

While other factors, such as cooler water temperatures and potentially stronger currents, may pose risks during rescues, reduced visibility stands out as a significant threat, as it directly impacts the safety and effectiveness of rescue operations.