Lifeguards are required to rescue swimmers who are drowning. They may work at athletic clubs, swimming pools, hotels, indoor recreational pools, among other places. Their duties are related to all aspects of water safety and sometimes they use CPR in cases of medical emergencies. These professionals need to be always alert for situations that might lead to serious accidents.
Lifeguards usually perform many of the following tasks:
• Monitoring pool maintenance.
• Giving swimming lessons.
• Reminding users the rules and regulations of the pool.
• Rescuing swimmers.
• Preventing accidents.
Skills
• Having knowledge of pool maintenance.
• Being able to work under stressful circumstances.
• Having knowledge of lifesaving methods.
• Being able to react quickly in emergencies.
• Having interpersonal skills.
• Being physically fit.
• Having good communication skills.
• Being a good swimmer.
• Having high attention to details.
• Being able to calm victims.
Education
A minimum requirement to be a Lifesaver is to have the Red Cross Advanced Lifesaving certificate. This certification requires that professionals complete more than twenty two units of rescue and swimming instruction for water safety. After those units, candidates must pass a practical test. This certificate must be renewed after three years where applicants need to show their fitness and skills again. Other certificate for people working in this area is the Red Cross Water Safety Instructor. This certificate requires that candidates take more intensive courses of instruction. Professionals also need to be able to teach all levels of swimmers, from beginners to senior lifesavers.
