How to Become a Lifeguard

Becoming a Lifeguard

If you are an excellent swimmer that loves being around people, then why not consider becoming a lifeguard? With the proper training and certification, you will be out working on your tan and helping those in need before you know it. This guide will give you information and tips on how to become a lifeguard.

Become a Lifeguard

This video offers a brief overview of what is required to become a lifeguard, whether you are applying for a job at the local pool or an area beach. Highlights include information on the types of lifeguard positions you can aspire toward, the importance of being able to communicate well with people, obtaining proper certification, and where to find job listing in your area. The video also talks about places you can get your training and certification from, including your local YMCA and Red Cross.

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Introduction
- Are you a skilled swimmer that loves spending time at the beach or local watering hole? Do you enjoy helping people in need, and possess excellent communication skills? If so, you might want to put your skills to use by becoming a lifeguard. It is the perfect opportunity for those that love the water and being around people while soaking in the sun's rays. This guide will provide you with all the relevant information on how to become a lifeguard.
Step 1: Develop Skills
- If you are in great shape and a strong swimmer, than you are well on your way to developing the necessary skills to become a lifeguard. Lifeguards spend their time around people in a hands on setting. Therefore, you shoud develop strong communication skills in addition to your swimming talents. You may also want to:
1. Lift weights. Being physically fit is essential for lifeguards.
2. Have a positive attitude
3. Eat healthy
4. Take care of your skin by putting on sunscreen and wearing hats
Step 2: Research Job Opportunities
- There are many job opportunities for those interested in becoming a lifeguard. Whether you intend to make lifeguard related work your career, or you only want to pursue it during your summer vacation, there is a high demand for skilled lifeguards. Some places that hire lifeguards are:
1. Department of parks and recreation. This would include lifeguard jobs at the local aquatic center pool or on one of the local beaches.
2. The Red Cross
3. The YMCA
4. Private country clubs
5. Summer camps
6. Neighborhood pools
7. Water parks
Step 3: Get Certification and Training
- All lifeguards must be at lease 15 years of age and acquire certification. There may be other requirements depending on where you are applying for a job, however. Most certification programs can be taken at:
1. The Red Cross
2. The YMCA
3. Accredited schools that provide lifeguard training, as well as other aquatic related training
- You will need to pass a swimming test in order to enroll in the actual certification course, so make sure your swimming skills are strong. In order to receive your lifeguard certification, you will be trained and tested in both swimming and safety related areas, as well as your academic recall of various lifeguard specific information. You will be tested on:
1. Your ability to perform CPR
2. Your ability to swim to the bottom of a pool and retrieve bricks
3. Whether or not you can save a real person that is suffering some for of duress
Step 4: Find a Job
- Once you have met all the requirements, you can start the process of procuring a job. You can do some research online, looking for job openings in your area. Also call your local parks and recreation office, or contact nearby water parks. If you are still in high school, you may want to volunteer at your local Red Cross or YMCA, and hopefully if you impress them you will be hired.
Conclusion
- If you love swimming and enjoy helping people, then why not consider becoming a lifeguard? It is a challenging job that will always be in demand, and a great opportunity if you like to spend your days in the sun. The above guide provides you with the information you need to get started on your career path to becoming a lifeguard.
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