A lifeguard is someone who is trained to be a lifeguard and is employed to watch over swimmers. Lifeguards work in pools, lakes, beaches and rivers. They are typically assigned to one or more swimming areas and are required to wear a lifeguard uniform.
Lifeguarding is an important job and you need a lifeguard certification from a well-reputed organization to be able to get a job as a lifeguard. There are different types of lifeguard categories to get lifeguard training in.
Categories of lifeguards
Here we will talk about some of the different categories that a lifeguard job is divided into.
Recreational lifeguard
This is the most common type of lifeguard. Recreational lifeguards are usually employed by private pools and resorts, but can also work for public pools. The recreational lifeguard watches over swimmers from a floating chair or deck, keeping an eye on the pool and watching for any problems.
Recreational lifeguards are usually trained in CPR and First Aid as well as water safety. Recreational lifeguards are not always certified. The job pays less than a commercial lifeguard. However, it is considered a more relaxing job with plenty of time to talk to people.
Commercial lifeguard
Commercial lifeguards work at public swimming pools. They are typically employed by municipal agencies. Most municipalities require lifeguards to be certified through the National Recreation Safety Institute (NRSI).
Commercial lifeguards usually have a lifeguard certification in CPR, First Aid, and water safety, as well as their agency’s specific training requirements. These lifeguards are usually responsible for supervising the entire pool area, including the diving well.
Public safety lifeguard
Public safety lifeguards are responsible for protecting the public and other lifeguards from injury or drowning. These lifeguards are often employed by public pools, water parks, and other places where large groups of people gather.
Public safety lifeguards typically work at beaches, lakes, and rivers. They may also work in pools during the summer months when large numbers of people are expected to swim.
Rescue lifeguard
This type of lifeguard is trained to rescue swimmers in trouble. Rescue lifeguards are often called upon to rescue drowning victims and perform CPR. Rescue lifeguards carry a radio and may be equipped with a first aid kit.
Rescue lifeguards are often employed at public pools where they have the ability to provide lifeguard service. Rescues are also required in private swimming pools, but they are usually only employed when needed. Rescues are sometimes performed by regular lifeguards, but this is not common.
The job duties of a lifeguard
The job duties of a lifeguard include saving people from drowning, helping them to get back on dry land if they are in trouble, and making sure that the swimming area is safe for swimmers.
The role of the lifeguard Lifeguards can help people who are in distress. If someone has been knocked unconscious or is unconscious, the lifeguard should try to revive them by performing CPR.
Lifeguards also make sure that swimming pools are safe and secure so that people can use the facilities without fear. Lifeguards may be involved in rescues, such as when they save a child who has fallen into the water.
Their duties also include checking water levels and making sure that all pools are adequately stocked with lifeguards. Lifeguard jobs are usually full-time positions, but many lifeguards work part-time or even seasonally (depending on the location).
Lifeguards are typically paid hourly or per shift, although some lifeguards receive benefits such as health insurance and paid leave. Most lifeguard employers do not require lifeguards to have any specific training, but those who work in private pools typically have some training in CPR and First Aid.
Final Words
The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) is offering on-site lifeguard training for people who are willing to take some time out for attending the lifeguard classes. We have professional lifeguard trainers to supervise the candidates for lifeguard training.
ALA is offering online lifeguard training classes for the convenience of students who are working and cannot take out specific time for the classes. We provide the lifeguard certification that is acceptable nationally and internationally.
For more information on our lifeguard courses, please contact ALA.
