A beach lifeguard is responsible for keeping people safe while they enjoy the sun and surf at the beach. With rip tides, dangerous marine life, and crashing waves, the ocean can be a dangerous place. It is the responsibility of the beach lifeguard to ensure that people have a safe time in and around the water. Because this is such a demanding job, applicants must meet certain requirements before being allowed to work as a beach lifeguard.
Anyone interested in becoming a beach lifeguard must first meet the United States Lifesaving Association’s requirements (USLA). The purpose of this organization is to ensure the safety of those who work and play in or near water. The ability to swim quickly over short distances is one of the first requirements for applicants. People who want to work as beach lifeguards, for example, must be able to swim 550 yards (500 meters) in under ten minutes.
Not only must a potential beach lifeguard be a strong swimmer, but he or she must also have the physical stamina to perform this vital job. Physical demands include the ability to run long distances quickly and lift, drag, or pull heavy objects. Lifeguards on the beach must have excellent vision and hearing. Because lifeguards must be able to see and hear any signs that a swimmer is in distress, these two qualities are critical.
Anyone interested in becoming a beach lifeguard must first complete training in first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Those selected for additional training will learn how to save people in open water and how to use water rescue equipment properly.
Aspiring beach lifeguards can improve their physical fitness and swimming ability to improve their chances of being accepted as a lifeguard. They can, for example, strive to eat a healthier diet. A well-balanced diet will improve body performance and may even aid an applicant’s performance on a physical fitness test.
Another way to prepare for a beach lifeguard test is to swim in the ocean and gain confidence in open water as well as the skills required to swim safely in it. Another way to improve swimming skills is to use kickboards and pull buoys in the local pool to help build upper body and leg strength. Swimming timed sprints in the pool can also help beach lifeguard candidates improve their short-distance swimming ability. Becoming a beach lifeguard is no easy task, but those who are committed to entering this demanding field can achieve their goals with hard work and dedication.