Lifeguards are hired to safeguard bathers. They are skilful swimmers in uniform roaming around the beaches or resorts patrolling and takes charge in the orientation of swimmers on the dos and don’ts and gives preventive measures on certain areas. Lifeguards are often looked for when there are cases of drowning. They rescue and perform first aid treatments such as CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation).
Responsibilities:
- Orienting swimmers of the precautionary measures and gives instructions
- Rescuing swimmers in cases of drowning
- Uses testing kits to measure chlorine content of water
- Measures Ph level of water
- Making reports
- Officiates swimming lessons
Educational/ Training/ Certificate Requirements:
- Must have a current Red Cross Lifesaving Certificate and must (renewal after 3 years)
- Must have at least six to ten months of training as a lifeguard
- Must be at least 15 years of age (age requirements may vary on some resorts)
Skills Needed:
- Presence of mind ( a must especially when there are emergency situations)
- Can adjust to water conditions (pool/salt water/springs)
- Must have good public relation skills
- Quick in decision making
- Possess leadership skills
- Well understands Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (How it is used and when will it be applied)
- Acquire knowledge on giving first aid treatments
Areas where lifeguards can be employed:
Lifeguards may be employed in any place where there are bodies of water, either public or private.
Here are some areas where lifeguards can mostly be seen:
- Public Resorts/ Beaches
- Recreational Departments
- Hotels/Motels
- Health Clubs
- Schools
- Gyms
- Water Clubs
- country Clubs
Salaries:
Lifeguards are given an hourly rate of $ 7, while others that gained more experiences receive a higher rate as $ 20 per hour. However, compensations given to lifeguards are dependent upon the number of hours they worked and how wide the area to be patrolled.