Become A Lifeguard

Did you know that lifeguards are in high-demand? There are countless organizations and institutions across the country that is on the lookout for talented and responsible youth who have received their life guarding certification. In fact, lifeguards are in such high demand that many companies are willing to pay higher rates for those individuals who can work extended periods of time without missing a day of work.

Additionally, lifeguards are not just needed during the summer time.  Lifeguards are needed at indoor pools such as at YMCA’s, sports centers, and even in medical facilities. This means that your child can obtain full-time or part-time employment year round. If your child has a love for swimming and is interested in becoming a lifeguard then you should consider the information provided herein.

Lifeguard Certification Requirements

In order to start as a lifeguard your teen must seek out and obtain lifeguard certification. The good news is that the American Red Cross and most YMCA’s offer lifeguarding certification classes monthly. In order to determine when your community is conducting their next lifeguarding class you should directly contact your local American Red Cross or YMCA.

Below are the most common requirements and qualifications that your child must meet in order to obtain their lifeguarding certification:

These are the general requirements that you will need to meet in order to receive your lifeguarding certification. It is always wise for your teen to begin practicing these things before attempting to get their lifeguarding certification. The certification class is very long and physically demanding. Therefore, your child should be physically fit and should be able to complete the 500 yard swim with ease.

Become a Lifeguard Rules Of Conduct

As previously stated, a high level of maturity and responsibility is needed for anyone who desires to be a successful lifeguard. You can’t be easily distracted! When you become a lifeguard you are responsible for the lives of everyone who steps into the swimming pool which you are watching over. If you are easily distracted and lack responsibility, then you will be putting the lives of those swimming in great jeopardy. Therefore, you must be dedicated and responsible in order to become a lifeguard.

Every year there are drowning deaths reported all over the world. 95% of these drowning deaths are due to careless lifeguards who were not paying attention when the drowning victim went underwater. It is of the utmost importance that if you become a lifeguard that you focus on your job and that you are watching the water at all times.

Additionally, it should be noted that all lifeguards are generally required to keep up their physical endurance and swimming habits weekly. Most companies will require their lifeguards to swim weekly and to take part in monthly in-service practice sessions where they practice various rescues.   Additionally, all pools are subject to ‘State Testing.’ This means that at any given moment and time the ‘State’ can show up at the pool you are lifeguarding and test your skills. Therefore, you must always be prepared and reading for anything that comes your way.

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