A Lifeguard Certification and Summer Job Opportunity Guide

Being a lifeguard means more than just hanging out poolside or beachside in the summertime; there are responsibilities that require focus, training, and a cool head for emergency action. For most, lifeguarding becomes a summer job away from home, complimented with some cash and exposure.

But before rushing to get lifeguarded, it is wise to first consider the skills and requirements, and the whole lifeguard certification process. Herein is a complete guide on how to become a certified lifeguard and succeed in this highly esteemed arena.

Why to become a lifeguard?

It is rewarding in terms of being active and staying fit. One must stay alert, be prepared, and respond in cases of emergencies. For some, the honor and responsibility that comes with saving someone’s life make lifeguarding one of the most gratifying summer jobs.

Besides personal achievement and satisfaction, lifeguarding is also an excellent place to learn job-related skills: communication, teamwork, and crisis management. Employers rate these as highly valuable skills. So far, being a lifeguard holds a lot of weight in terms of enhancing your resume.

Getting Lifeguard Certified: The Process

To do the job of a lifeguard it is first necessary to get an American lifeguard certification that ensures one is well equipped with the skills and learning to manage emergency situations. Requirements vary with location or employer but broadly, you typically need to do the following to become a certified lifeguard: First, you must qualify with the requirements.

Most often, applicants will be over fifteen years of age and should have demonstrated proficiency in swimming tests which require specific distances usually around 300 yards in certain times.

• Lifeguards Classes: They should take the lifeguard classes since they would take a few days and use theory and practice to obtain the certificate. The various topics that the classes cover include water safety, first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, rescue techniques, and emergency responses.
• Theoretical knowledge: This course will practically provide detailed demonstration and comprehensive theoretical rules on water safety, proper techniques of rescue action, and how to detect possible hazards. You will also be taught how to manage emergencies like near drowning cases, spinal injuries, and other injuries related to water.
• Practical Skills: The practical aspect of the course permits practicing in skills through simulated emergencies; these include swimming and rescues, CPR, and first aid. The lesson also goes over using rescue equipment, including floating objects, rescue tubes, and backboards.
• Certification Exam: After successfully finishing the course, one needs to pass a theoretical written exam to test the theoretical knowledge and a practical test to demonstrate the skills in rescue and first aid. Only by passing both these tests can one receive the certification.

Lifeguard certification Requirements

Normally a lifeguard certification is good for one to two years depending on the certifying authority. After the lapse of date, a lifeguard has to renew his/her certification with a refresher course or retraining in the original classes.

The renewal itself usually consists of showing your skills and knowledge in a practical test and attending a short training session to be brought up to date with the latest in safety procedures.

Where to Find Lifeguard Jobs?

Once your lifeguard certification is achieved, employment opportunities abound. There is a need for lifeguards to work at pools, beaches, water parks, and lakeside resorts. Some of the main places for lifeguard jobs include –

• Public Pools: Municipal pools, community centers, and fitness clubs tend to hire lifeguards for the summer season. These positions tend to be quite stable with regular hours.
• Beaches: During the peak summer months, coastal and lake shore areas often require the services of a lifeguard to monitor numerous swimmers.
• Water Parks: Amusement and water parks make great fast-paced, exciting environments for lifeguard work.
• Private Resorts: Luxurious resorts, hotels, and country clubs generally employ lifeguards for the safety of their guests by their pools and beaches.

Lifeguard Career Growth

A summertime thing, lifeguarding might well be said to be important for bringing entry into many careers. Learn water rescue, first aid instructing, and select advanced certification, or become a supervisor or manager at pools, resorts, or even aquatic centers for lifeguards who would like to work beyond lifeguarding.

Lifeguarding can also lead to work in coaching, water safety education, and emergency medical services (EMS), among other things, depending on interests and experience. This coupled with the certification allows a person to become a summer lifeguard with activities, responsibilities, and the ability to make a difference.

American lifeguard association resources for those preparing for lifeguard certification as well as renewal processes so that their badged lifeguards can save and manage in emergencies effectively. Whether for a summer position or preparing for a lifetime of work in water safety, become a certified lifeguard; it’s the chance to be exciting and fulfilling.