How to Become a Lifeguard - Training, Certification and Jobs

The reality of a part-time lifeguard class job is a little different than the reputation that preceded it, and if you're willing to consider working at a pool, lifeguarding can be a really great second job for adults looking to supplement their income. In fact, I parlayed my part-time staff into a fulfilling full-time career because I was willing to open my mind to the possibilities.

The role of a lifesaver

The primary mission of a lifeguard is pretty self-explanatory: to protect human lives. Guards are trained to effectively investigate the water body and the surrounding area in order to prevent and respond to emergencies. They are trained in rescuers' professional resuscitation and first aid practices, and are taught to anticipate potential problems before they arise.

However, the work does not end there. Depending on the facility, security guards may be required to operate cash registers, clean grounds, clean bathrooms, teach swimming lessons, handle customer complaints, and perform other customer service duties as they arise.

Becomes a lifesaver

Becoming a rescuer requires time and money at first. Certification courses cost anywhere from $150 to $500 and take up to 30 hours to complete. If you have a specific facility you want to work at, check with the manager to see what types of first responder certifications they want. Most facilities accept American Lifeguard Association or Ellis and Associates certifications, but YMCAs may require certifications. In addition, there are several other recognized certifications.

Before taking the course

This seems like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many times I've been asked this: To be a lifeguard class, you have to be able to swim. Certification courses require a number of swim tests before the class starts, and if you can't pass the tests, you can't continue to take the course.

Swimming requirements vary depending on the type of certification, but you must at least be able to swim 300 meters (six full laps in a standard 25-meter pool) without rest without using the "rhythmic breathing technique". Rhythmic breathing is simply the term used when you put your face in the water to breathe before lifting it out of the water to breathe.

Lifeguard course

Rescue personnel courses consist of class-based lifeguards class and discussion as well as practical skills scenarios. Instructors should give you a general curriculum before class, but always bring a bathing suit, towel and change of clothes.

During the rescue course you will learn:

• Identify and prevent common ground emergencies.
• Avoid distractions.
• Cooperate with the rest of the lifeguard squad.
• Activate the facility's Emergency Action Plan.
• Interacts appropriately with customers.
• Perform CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED), a device that can help the heart beat into a normal rhythm.
• Provide first aid and emergency care.
• Scan the body of water properly to ensure all patrons are safe and compliant.
• Identify water-based emergencies.
• Perform water rescue for distressed swimmers and drowning victims.

Some instructors are better than others and have an interest in enthusiasm for perfection. Be thankful if your instructor is extra strict about proper form because it will pay off later. It will make you a better lifeguard class and find future services and recertifications more easily than your peers.

However, if your teacher seems too relaxed and lacking in detail, take the extra time to review your own material and try pairing up with a classmate who has a good grasp of the material during skill practice.

Certification

To pass the course and become a certified rescuer, you must attend all classes and perform all skills correctly. Periodically you have to take a written exam and on the last day you complete several skill scenarios. These are viable make-or-break tests that require you to recognize an ongoing emergency, respond appropriately, and provide the necessary care from start to finish.

The American Lifeguard Association only allows two attempts to pass each scenario before you have to complete the entire course. Instructors do not provide tips or pointers during these scenarios, which is why it is so important to master the skills before the last day of the course.

A day in the life of a lifeguard

It is important that lifeguard class go into their jobs with an understanding of what the job means every day. While you may enjoy spending time outside dancing and hanging out with friends, there are many aspects of work that are not so glamorous.

Benefits

It's not an easy job, but being a lifeguard class has many benefits:

•  You get paid relatively well.
• You have a flexible schedule in a relaxed environment.
• You get to hang out with interesting people and make good friends.
• You can cool off in the pool during your break.
• You get a lot of customer service experience.
• You learn responsibility and how to anticipate potentially dangerous situations.
• You will gain valuable life-saving skills that will stay with you throughout your life and may even be valuable in future jobs.

Must Read: 9 benefits of swimming for your health