Diving into a fulfilling job as a lifeguard summer is just perfect. Whether you are seeking a long-term career or a seasonal one, lifeguard training offers fundamental skills, interesting experiences, and the opportunity to significantly impact your community. Certified lifeguards are much sought after with beaches, pools, and waterparks busy during the hot months.
Now is the moment to sign up for a lifeguard course if you are considering an aquatic career. One of the top companies providing full lifeguard training courses intended to equip you for actual first aid, CPR, and more rescues is the American Lifeguard Association (ALA).
This article will discuss why this training makes a great career move, what certification course should cover, and how to start a program local to you.
Why Follow Lifeguard training?
Becoming a lifeguard is more than just lounging by the pool; it is a position that calls for responsibility, fast thinking, and physical fitness. Here’s why you should give lifeguard training some thought:
- Certified lifeguards are in great demand.
Aquatic facilities run every summer to find qualified lifeguards. A certification from a respected organization such as the American Lifeguard Association will help you to get quickly at pools, beaches, waterparks, and summer camps.
- Competitive Pay and Flexible Hours
Lifeguarding provides chances for overtime during busy seasons as well as competitive hourly rates—usually over minimum wage. Many facilities offer flexible scheduling, which is great for students or people with other obligations.
- Lifesaving Abilities With Lifetime Value
Lifeguard training equips you with CPR, first aid, and emergency response skills useful in any job or personal circumstance, not only for a job.
- Possibilities for Job Advancement
Beginning as a lifeguard can open doors to swim instructor jobs, management positions, or even jobs in firefighting and emergency medical services (EMS). Many initial responders started their road with lifeguard training.
What to Look For In a Lifeguard Certification Course
Programs for lifeguard training help you to meet industry standards and get ready for actual crises. A typical course covers the following topics:
- Water Rescue Methods
You will discover how to execute several rescues, including:
– Rescues of passive victims and active ones
– Managing spinal injury
– Using other tools and rescue tubes
- CPR and first aid training
American lifeguard certification covers first aid for injuries including cuts, fractures, and heat-related problems as well as CPR for adults, kids, and babies.
- AED Certification
Since many swimming facilities need lifeguards to be skilled in using this life-saving device, training with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a vital foundation
- Specifications for Physical Fitness
To demonstrate they can meet the physical demands of the lifeguard position, lifeguards must pass swimming tests including timed laps and retrieval drills.
- Legal and Professional Responsibilities
Knowing the legal elements of lifeguarding—such as negligence and duty of care—helps one to be ready to act sensibly in crises.
Courses offered by the American Lifeguard Association meet these criteria to guarantee you receive excellent training that employers respect.
How to Select the Best Lifeguard Training Course
Not all certifications for lifeguards are identical. Choosing a program calls for consideration of the following:
- Accreditation
Make sure important organizations—such as the American Lifeguard Association. This guarantees employers all around will value your certification.
- Course Structure
Many schedules present:
- In-person training is hands-on experience in actual aquatic settings.
- Blended learning is an online course with face-to-face competency testing.
Select the format most suitable for your schedule and learning preference.
- Experienced Teachers
Seek out classes led by qualified teachers with actual world lifeguarding experience. Your preparedness can be greatly improved by their observations.
- Assistant with Job Placement
Certain programs—such as those offered by the American Lifeguard Association—offer job placement assistance linking graduates to regional businesses.
Steps to Register for a Lifeguard Class
So, are you excited to get started? Here are some simple steps to start enrolling in a lifeguard training class this summer.
- Check Prerequisites
Most courses have a few obvious prerequisites.
- We all need to be the minimum age (most of the time that is 15 or 16)
- We need to show you can swim 300 yards continuously
- We need to know you can tread water for 2 minutes without using your hands
- Find a Course
There are several ways to find a course that is local. You can either search for training providers through the American Lifeguard Association website or check out the local community pools/recreation centres.
- Register for the Course
Once you select a course:
- Do pre-course materials
- Bring a swimsuit, towel, notebook, and other things if required.
- Get a good night’s sleep and be ready to learn.
- Pass the Exam.
You will be required to pass a written and practical exam in order to be certified. If you follow the same steps as you learn to be a lifeguard, you will pass!
- Apply for Other Lifeguard Jobs.
After you are certified, start applying at the local pools, beaches, and waterparks. Many seasonal pools may hire on the spot due to lifeguard shortages in the summer season.
Final Word
While lifeguard training can be more than just a summer job, it is your first step towards a rewarding career. Completing this course will allow you to learn more skills, become recognized as a leader, learn medical knowledge, and learn another way to exhibit physical fitness. You will be able to walk away from any good lifeguard program like the American Lifeguard Association program and feel prepared to take on this huge responsibility.
This summer, take the plunge and register for a lifeguard class. You’ll not only secure a great job but also gain abilities that can save lives.
Are you ready to become a lifeguard? Find a course near you today and start your journey!
