A lifeguard does exactly what it says on the tin: she protects the lives of swimmers within her area of responsibility. This includes keeping an eye on swimmers not only in the water, but also on beaches, docks, piers, and rafts. The job of a lifeguard is to keep the entire swimming area safe.
The job is demanding, requiring the ability to simultaneously observe a large number of people of various ages and swimming abilities. These people could be confined to hotel pools, municipal recreation areas, privately owned swim clubs, or schools, or they could be spread out along a river, lake, or ocean’s beachfront. To ensure public safety and maintain a pleasant recreational environment, a lifeguard must also supervise and control swimmers’ behavior outside of the water.
A lifeguard’s primary responsibility is to ensure that everyone in her charge is safe. A lifeguard frequently sits in a tall chair overlooking the pool or beach area to improve his or her view of the area of responsibility. In larger open water areas, lifeguards in rowboats are frequently seen patrolling the area. Binoculars are an essential piece of equipment for most lifeguards.
In addition to keeping an eye on swimmers, lifeguards keep an eye out for situations that could lead to dangerous situations. In the water or on the beach, rough play that could result in injury is prohibited, as is playing with dangerous objects or toys. Lifeguards are trained to provide basic first aid and have access to emergency phone numbers and trained personnel in the event of an injury.
To become a lifeguard, you must not only be an expert swimmer and be able to handle emergencies calmly, but you must also be formally trained and certified. The minimum certification required varies by location, but in most cases, a Red Cross Advanced Lifesaving Certificate or its equivalent is required. The training course requires passing a test on approach and rescue techniques as well as completing 22 units of water safety instruction. Lifeguards must complete a refresher course every three years in order to remain employed in most locations.
Because it is seasonal work in many parts of the country and usually does not require a high salary or include benefits, being a lifeguard is often considered only a summer job for young students. However, if you work for a cruise line or an indoor club or facility that needs lifeguards all year, it can turn into a full-time job. A lifeguard can also become a water safety instructor, swimming teacher, or coach with additional training, all of which pay significantly more than a lifeguard position.