You’ve seen lifeguards seated on chairs watching over swimmers from their watch stations while acting as a representation of security, protection, and vigilance over swimmers. Many strong swimmers may enjoy being around the water or have the skills required as strong swimmers to want to continue using those skills in some capacity, such as a full-time job. However, the most important reason to become a lifeguard is not the income; it’s the commitment to this position to others. The first step for most prospective lifeguards is understanding how to obtain a lifeguard certificate. For many, the first hurdle is knowing how to get lifeguard certification and sifting through options to determine what the best lifeguard course near me is.
This article not only provides an outline of these steps, but also explains why the Lifeguard Certificate is your foundational training to becoming a successful Lifeguard and how to make an informed decision about which Lifeguard Certification Path is right for you.
How Do You Know If You Have the Right Foundation for Lifeguard Training?
You should first take a long, hard look at what your current skills are before you start looking at classes to get lifeguard certification, as becoming a lifeguard involves more than just being capable of swimming–it means being able to perform in potentially dangerous situations. One has to meet certain requirements to obtain the certification.
These are not random requirements; they help to build your stamina, and by completing these tasks before taking part in your formal lifeguard training, you will be able to focus on what you learn in your training course instead of needing to use training time on building your physical capacity to perform the tasks necessary to safely save someone’s life.
How to Get Lifeguard Certification?
To get certified as a lifeguard, you will need to take an academic course that teaches physical skills, teaches you to physically master them, and develops your mind for psychological preparedness. The required coursework generally includes 25 to 30 hours of training in many locations, either over a weekend intensive timeframe or spread out over multiple weeks of scheduled training. The curriculum consists of four core modules of training: Surveillance and Scanning Techniques, designed to assist in preventing emergencies;
Water Rescue using Tubes, Boards and Active Saves; CPR/AED and First Aid for the Lifeguard Professional; Spinal Injury Management, which is typically the most technical skill taught.
In addition to becoming proficient at saving with a proper technique in a controlled training pool, the certification process also requires proficiency in:
- Victim assessment
- Communication with other rescuers and/or emergency services personnel
- Knowledge of the legal issues that pertain to the lifeguard profession.
The final exam to achieve your certification tests the ability to combine all of the skills and knowledge you have obtained in a simulated emergency.
Why Is the Decision Between Pool, Waterpark, and Beachfront Certification Critical?
Lifeguard certification comes in a wide variety, and you should be careful to choose the correct and the best lifeguard certification depending on your career goals. For example, the Basic Pool Certification will give you certification to work as a lifeguard at a community pool and/or fitness centre. The Basic Pool Certification covers still water in a contained (limited size) area, with evidently clear water. Children are often very active and don’t pay attention to their surroundings as much as they should.
If you plan to work in a waterpark that has features such as slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, etc., you should look for someone who provides a detailed lifeguard course for these types of settings. The primary difference between the Basic Pool Certification and the Beachfront or Waterfront Certifications is the ability to lifeguard in “rough” water.
A Beachfront or Waterfront Certification provides separate training for dealing with currents, tides, and limited visibility. Therefore, this certification requires knowledge of how to use rescue cans, surfboards, and other types of equipment. You will also be exposed to a much greater amount of physicality and risk when working in these environments. If you choose the wrong certification, you will not have any employability in that line of work.
How Does Certification Transition into Actually Getting and Performing the Job?
Your certification indicates that you’ve acquired the knowledge necessary to complete the course. However, your education does not finish with your certification; in fact, your education is just beginning when you start working. As part of your employment, you’ll receive training specific to your employer’s facility to become familiar with the unique layout, rules, and emergency action plans of that facility. Thus, you’ll be putting into practice the information you’ve learned while completing your certification course.
Additionally, maintaining your certification requires continual education and practice; the skills you learn will become ‘perishable’ or will not be able to be used if you don’t continually practise them. Most certifications will have an expiration period of 2 years; you will need to go through the recertification process at that time. Many employers also require their lifeguards to complete monthly ‘in-service’ training, to keep their skills current. This learning cycle is also part of the ethical responsibilities of being a lifeguard.
Lifeguards are expected to always remain vigilant, fit and able to make the «right» decisions regarding potential safety issues. After the first time you have to blow your whistle to stop a dangerous situation, or when you react with instinctive training in a real incident, you will understand how much you have gained from a quality, thorough lifeguard certification course.
Where Can This Certification Lead You in the Long Term?
Assuming that lifeguards only serve as summer jobs does not acknowledge the true potential of this credential. Becoming a certified lifeguard from a reputed organization, such as the American Lifeguard Association, is both an opportunity to gain fundamental certification in public safety and recreation, and also serves as a stepping-stone into careers as an EMT, paramedic, firefighter or nurse.
In addition, the training and skills developed while making high-pressure decisions and providing patient care will serve you throughout your entire life experience. As a lifeguard progresses through their career in the aquatics field, they have the opportunity to advance to Head Lifeguard, Aquatic Supervisor, Pool Manager, and Water Safety Instructor.
Additionally, being ALA’s certified lifeguard builds one’s resume with examples of being a responsible person and having the capability to work together with others and be a leader. The connections with one’s instructors, coworkers, and professionals will help develop a network that can provide many opportunities throughout one’s life. Ultimately, attaining a lifeguarding certification is the first important step toward building a personal service-oriented, competent and calm authority identity, regardless of what life path you choose to pursue.
Becoming a lifeguard starts with a very small step, but it grows into something greater than yourself. By taking a good look at the best lifeguard course available and dedicating in process of how to get lifeguard certification, you are not just receiving a card; you are developing an attitude and skill set around the preservation of life. You are committing to being trained to help others when needed and being the calm in times of crisis, so that everyone who uses the water can be confident that they have a highly qualified professional watching over them while they swim. Visit Noted People for more details.
