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If you’re looking for a summer job that’s both exciting and challenging, becoming a lifeguard may be the perfect option for you. It can be a great way to earn money, meet new people, and stay active. But before you can start working as a lifeguard, there are some things you need to do first. In this post, we’ll talk about the steps you need to take to become a lifeguard. We’ll also discuss the training and certification requirements for lifeguards in the United States. So if you’re interested in becoming a lifeguard, keep reading!
How to Become a Lifeguard
1.Be at least 15 years old
Most people would agree that the job of a lifeguard is one of the most important roles at a beach. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of swimmers, and their quick thinking and reaction time can mean the difference between life and death. Given the high level of responsibility, it’s no surprise that there are strict requirements for becoming a lifeguard. In most cases, candidates must be at least 15 years old and have completed a certified training program.
2.Complete a certified CPR program
Anyone who wants to become a lifeguard must complete a certified CPR program. This program will teach you the proper techniques for performing CPR on adults, children, and infants. You will also learn how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). After completing the program, you can take a written skills test to receive your certification.
The CPR certification is valid for two years, after which you will need to renew it. Although it is not required, many lifeguards also choose to become certified in first aid. This certification will enable you to provide basic medical care for an injury or illness. First aid certification is also valid for two years.
3.Have a strong swimming ability
Swimming is an essential life skill, and being confident and competent in the water is required to become a lifeguard. Lifeguards need to have the stamina to swim long distances, as well as the strength to rescue swimmers in distress. They also need to assess a situation and make split-second decisions quickly.
As such, rigorous training and regular practice are essential for anyone who wants to become a lifeguard. While there are many different ways to learn how to swim, taking formal lessons from a certified instructor is often the best way to develop the skills needed to become a lifeguard.
4.Pass a physical examination
A physical examination is required to become a lifeguard. A licensed physician must conduct the physical examination, and the lifeguard candidate must receive a clean bill of health to be certified. The physical examination includes a comprehensive review of the applicant’s medical history, a physical examination, and a vision test.
The purpose of the physical examination is to ensure that the applicant is physically fit to perform the lifeguard duties. Furthermore, the physical examination helps identify any health conditions that could potentially jeopardize the safety of beachgoers.
5.Complete a lifeguard training program
Becoming a lifeguard is more than just passing a swimming test. To be certified, individuals must complete a lifeguard training program covering a wide range of topics, from CPR to first aid. The training program is designed to prepare lifeguards for the challenges they may face on the job, and it includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice.
While the program is demanding, it is essential to ensure that lifeguards are prepared to provide the highest level of care. As a result, completing a lifeguard training program is a requirement for anyone who wants to become a lifeguard.
6.Become certified in first-aid
To become a certified lifeguard, prospective guards must pass a first-aid certification course. This course covers a wide range of topics related to first-aid, including CPR, AED use, and basic wound care. While the certification is not required to be a lifeguard, it is highly recommended.
Local Red Cross chapters typically offer first-aid certification courses, providing guards with the skills and knowledge necessary to respond in a medical emergency. Without certification, a lifeguard could only provide basic care, which may not be enough to save a victim’s life.
In addition, many employers prefer to hire guards who are certified in first-aid. For these reasons, it is strongly recommended that all prospective lifeguards become certified in first-aid before applying for a job.
7.Understand emergency medical procedures
Understanding emergency medical procedures are essential for anyone who wants to become a lifeguard. Not only do lifeguards need to be able to identify potential health risks, but they also need to know how to respond in an emergency.
Among other things, this means being able to administer CPR, operate a defibrillator, and provide first aid. While these skills can be learned through formal training, it is also important for lifeguards to have a basic understanding of how to perform these procedures before they are called upon to do so in an emergency.
By familiarizing themselves with emergency medical procedures, lifeguards can help ensure that they are prepared to handle any situation.
8.Be able to make quick decisions in difficult situations
Being a lifeguard is not a job for everyone. It requires split-second decisions, staying calm under pressure, and a deep understanding of water safety. To become a lifeguard, one must complete extensive training in CPR and first aid. They must also be able to swim long distances and pass a rigorous written exam. But even with all this training, there is no guarantee that a lifeguard will never have to make a difficult decision.
They may have to choose between saving one person or multiple people in an emergency. They may have to decide to close the beach due to dangerous conditions. No matter what the situation, a lifeguard must be able to act quickly and confidently. Making quick decisions in difficult situations is a requirement for becoming a lifeguard.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Lifeguard Qualification?
Becoming a certified lifeguard takes time and effort, but it can be a rewarding experience. The process typically involves completing a training course, passing a written exam, and passing a physical skills test.
The training course length can vary depending on the provider, but it is typically around 40 hours. Once the training is complete, candidates must pass a written exam with a score of 80% or higher. Finally, they must pass a physical skills test, including swimming 300 yards, running 50 yards, and performing CPR on an adult and child mannequin.
Although the process may seem daunting, most people who complete the training find it well worth the effort. With proper training and certification, lifeguards can help keep people safe in both pools and open water bodies.
How Hard is It to Train as a Lifeguard?
The greatest misconception about training to become a lifeguard is that it is a piece of cake. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to complete the program. The first step is completing a rigorous swim test that includes swimming 500 yards in under 10 minutes. This may not seem like a long-distance relationship, but it becomes quite challenging when you factor in the need to keep your head above water the whole time. Once you have passed the swim test, you must complete 30 hours of classroom and pool training. This will cover first aid, CPR, and water rescue techniques.
After completing the program, you will need to pass a final written and skills test before officially becoming a lifeguard. As you can see, becoming a lifeguard is no easy feat; however, once you have completed the training and are prepared to handle whatever comes your way, you will find that it is one of the most rewarding jobs.
What is Rookie Lifeguard?
Rookie Lifeguard is a training program for young people who want to become lifeguards. The program teaches participants the skills to monitor swimming areas and assist swimmers in distress safely. Participants learn about water rescue techniques, first aid, and CPR. They also learn how to identify and respond to hazardous situations. The program is open to young people aged 12-16 and typically runs for four weeks during the summer. After completing the program, participants will be prepared to take on the responsibility of keeping others safe at the beach or pool.
Conclusion
Becoming a lifeguard is not as hard as it seems. With the right attitude and plenty of practice, you can be on your way to saving lives in no time!-We hope this article has helped give you a better idea of what is involved in becoming a lifeguard.
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