There are undoubtedly a lot of different water activities which are enjoyed by a great many people. Many of these require the presence of a lifeguard. This is a professional who is often taken for granted and not given the credit that is due to them.
Different Types of Water Activities
In most cases, the two main activities which are enjoyed, which are overseen by a lifeguard, is first, swimming activities at different beaches. Then, for those who use a public swimming pool. Not only is the water to be enjoyed at different pools, but something else you can do is enjoy playing with free spins on your phone while poolside.
Life Guard Education
Lifeguards are required to go through specific training to be certified. There are several requirements put on the student who is training to be a lifeguard, such as:
- Being a strong swimmer
- Have received training in life-saving techniques such as CPR and first aid
Life-saving technique training is provided through organizations such as the Red Cross.
Certification
Completion of the Red Cross training program can award the successful applicant any one of three certificates. Some lifeguards opt to take the training for all three certificates. The three certifications are:
- Lifeguarding Certification. This is applicable for those who want to work at the standard type of public pools.
- Waterfront Certification. Some lifeguards want the option of filling positions at traditional pools as well as waterfront locations. This certificate will allow them to do this.
- Waterpark Lifeguarding Certification. Lifeguards who want to qualify to work at waterparks will need this certification, which will also certify them to work at traditional pools.
Type of Training
The training that lifeguards will receive under these programs entails:
- Water-related injuries
- Life risks
- Water rescue
- Breathing and heart resuscitation
- Familiarization with various types of swimmer injuries
- Head, back and neck injuries
- Stabilization
- Using a backboard
- Mitigating external bleeding
The certification is valid for just three years, following which the individual will have to take a renewal course along with a new exam.
Choosing the Right Lifeguard Job
It will come down to personal preference as to which water setting the lifeguard wants to work at. They all can be crowded, but each of them comes with different challenges.
The Responsibilities
Aside from the responsibility which comes with the training, lifeguards always have to remain alert. They cannot allow themselves to get distracted. They must stay physically fit and always ensure that they are well hydrated, as they are often exposed to the sun for many hours at a time.
In addition to all of this, the lifeguard has to be able to take control of a situation which takes place under their watch and be able to maintain that control until other authorities arrive.