How do I Become a Lifeguard?
How do I become a Lifeguard
Lifeguards are employed at aquatic facilities such as swimming pools, beaches, water parks, and other recreational areas. A lifeguard's role is to keep people safe in and around bodies of water. They are taught to understand water safety and to enforce guidelines to guarantee that safe practices are followed. They are also capable of providing emergency care.
Lifeguards may instruct swim lessons, during which they may work with people of all ages to promote pool safety and during designated swimming time or water sports. Lifeguards are responsible for the following tasks:
- Keep the aquatic area free of dangerous things and debris that can cause risks by opening and closing facilities at the beginning and end of the day
- Keep an eye on swimmers to ensure their safety;
- monitor the weather for harmful situations;
- direct swimmers in and out of pool areas;
- perform chemical treatment on pool water on a regular basis; and
- handle administrative responsibilities linked to the position.
How to Become a Lifeguard
- Improve your physical swimming abilities.
Lifeguards must be strong swimmers with the physical ability to swim while carrying a burden. Consider joining a swim team to put your swimming skills to the test. If you don't have access to a pool at home, you can join a gym to acquire access to swimming facilities and improve your swimming abilities.
You may be required to demonstrate swimming abilities before being hired as a lifeguard, therefore anyone interested in this position should be physically fit and a strong swimmer.
- Successfully complete lifeguard training and certification
The American Red Cross provides lifeguard training. You can sign up for lifeguard training by going to their website or contacting your local Red Cross branch. You must also be certified in First Aid and CPR, which you can obtain from the Red Cross or other organizations. After completing lifeguard training, you must additionally pass the Red Cross's lifeguard certification test.
Aside from training and certification, there are no formal academic requirements for lifeguards. This is why it is a desirable alternative for pupils.
- Establish appropriate expectations
There are various reasons why someone might choose to work as a lifeguard. Consider your own. Aside-job income or working over a hiatus in work or school are two examples. Lifeguard jobs are popular among students since they are seasonal and coincide with school breaks at all levels of high school and higher education.
Young teenagers can work as lifeguards for additional money in some circumstances because a high school diploma isn't always required. Understand why you want to be a lifeguard, and where you want to work, and set reasonable expectations and goals.
- Apply for lifeguard positions.
You can begin applying for lifeguard positions once you have demonstrated physical ability and have completed the required training and certification.
