What is one purpose of the recovery stage in the water rescue process?

The recovery stage in the water rescue process primarily focuses on ensuring the safety of both the victim and the rescuer after an incident has occurred. One of the key aspects of this stage is to return the rescuer to safety. This is critical because, during a rescue, the rescuer may be exposed to hazardous conditions and must prioritize their own safety before proceeding with any further actions. Ensuring the rescuer's safety allows them to be in a position to provide appropriate assistance to the victim and to properly evaluate the situation once they are on solid ground.

Other options don't encapsulate the main purpose of the recovery stage. While retrieving personal items, conducting area assessments, and finalizing training may all be important in certain contexts, they do not specifically address the immediate safety concerns that drive the need for the recovery stage in the swiftwater rescue process.