How to Be Lifeguard - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dec 26, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Swimming is a popular activity for people of all ages, however, it can also be dangerous. To ensure the safety of swimmers, lifeguards are essential. Lifeguards are trained professionals who are responsible for monitoring swimmers and responding to any potential emergencies.

They scan the water for signs of distress, perform water rescues, and enforce pool rules. By providing constant vigilance, they are able to effectively prevent accidents and injuries in and around the pool. In addition, they provide first aid to those who become injured or ill.

Lifeguards provide a sense of security and reassurance to swimmers and other pool-goers, allowing them to enjoy their time in the water with confidence.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a CPR/AED Certification. To become a lifeguard, you must obtain a current certification in adult, child, and infant CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and AED (automated external defibrillator) use.
Become Certified in First Aid. You will also need to obtain certification in basic first aid.
Become Certified in Water Rescue. Depending on the type of lifeguarding you plan to do, you may need to obtain additional certifications in water rescue, such as the American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification or other specialized certifications.
Participate in a Lifeguard Training Program. After obtaining the necessary certifications, you will need to participate in a lifeguard training program, such as the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course.
Meet Age Requirements. Check with your local pool or beach to get the specific age requirements for lifeguards in your area. Generally, the minimum age to become a lifeguard is 16 years old.
Pass a Physical Exams. Most employers require potential lifeguards to pass a physical exam prior to hire.
Obtain a Lifeguard License. In some states, you may need to obtain a license to work as a lifeguard. Check with your local governing body to determine if this is required in your state.

The key to staying ahead and efficient as a lifeguard is to be proactive and organized. Being proactive means anticipating potential problems before they arise, such as watching for signs of distress before someone needs to be rescued. It also means staying ahead of potential hazards by being aware of the environment around you, such as monitoring weather conditions or knowing the depths of the pool.

Organization is also key, such as having a plan of action in place and knowing where to go for emergency supplies. being physically fit and knowledgeable about emergency protocols will help ensure you are ready to respond quickly when needed. By taking these proactive steps and staying organized, lifeguards can stay ahead and efficient in their duties.

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Job Description

Monitor pool area for safety and proper pool use
Enforce pool rules and regulations
Respond to emergency situations as needed
Rescue, resuscitate, and administer first aid as needed
Provide instruction to swimmers on safety and swimming techniques
Perform water tests and pool maintenance tasks
Inspect pool facilities for cleanliness and repair needs
Monitor pool chemicals, such as chlorine and pH levels
Operate motorized rescue equipment
Provide customer service and answer questions from guests and swimmers

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to swim and perform water rescues.
Knowledge of CPR and First Aid procedures.
Ability to recognize and respond to emergencies quickly and efficiently.
Ability to follow directions and take initiative when needed.
Ability to communicate effectively with patrons and fellow lifeguards.
Ability to maintain a professional, courteous attitude in stressful situations.
Knowledge of pool regulations and safety protocols.
Ability to enforce rules and regulations in a fair and consistent manner.
Ability to work well as part of a team.
Ability to remain alert and vigilant for extended periods of time.

Being a lifeguard is a noble and important job that requires a high level of responsibility. One of the most important skills for lifeguards to have is an ability to remain calm and make decisions quickly in high-pressure situations. Having strong swimming skills is essential because lifeguards are responsible for rescuing swimmers who are in danger.

They must also be able to spot any potential dangers in the water and take action to prevent them. they must be knowledgeable about safety regulations and first aid procedures in case of an injury or medical emergency. Furthermore, lifeguards must possess good communication skills so they can provide instructions and guidance to swimmers, as well as coordinate with other lifeguards to ensure the pool is safe.

Finally, lifeguards must have a high level of physical fitness so they can respond rapidly and effectively to any incident. All these skills are essential for lifeguards to safely and effectively protect swimmers and ensure their enjoyment of the pool.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a lifeguard?
How would you handle an emergency situation?
What safety protocols have you implemented in the past?
What do you think is the most important responsibility of a lifeguard?
How would you handle a disruptive patron?
Describe your experience with customer service.
Are you familiar with the regulations and standards set out by the American Red Cross?
What physical activities have you been involved in that would make you a successful lifeguard?
How would you handle a situation involving a patron who does not follow the rules?
What do you think is the best way to prevent accidents in aquatic settings?

Common Tools in Industry

Rescue Tube. A buoyant tube used to assist swimmers in distress (e. g. a lifeguard can use a rescue tube to bring a distressed swimmer back to shore).
Rescue Board. A buoyant board designed for a lifeguard to use when rescuing a swimmer in distress (e. g. a lifeguard can use a rescue board to propel themselves and the swimmer back to shore).
First Aid Kit. A kit containing medical supplies used in case of an injury (e. g. a lifeguard can use the first aid kit to treat minor injuries).
Whistle. A whistle used to signal for help or attention (e. g. a lifeguard can blow the whistle to alert other lifeguards of an emergency).
Rescue Can. A buoyant can attached to a rope used to pull a swimmer in distress back to shore (e. g. a lifeguard can use the rescue can to pull a swimmer back to safety).
Water Safety Card. A card with information on water safety that is given to swimmers (e. g. a lifeguard can provide swimmers with a water safety card to educate them on water safety).
Sunglasses. Sunglasses worn by the lifeguard to protect their eyes from the sun and glare on the water (e. g. a lifeguard can wear sunglasses to reduce the risk of sun damage).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Red Cross
National Swimming Pool Foundation
United States Lifesaving Association
National Aquatic Safety Company
National Water Safety Congress
International Marine Rescue Federation
International Life Saving Federation
International Surf Lifesaving Association
World Life Saving Organization
American Lifeguard Association

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Common Important Terms

Water Safety. Refers to the practice of preventing and minimizing the risk of drowning and other water-related injuries.
Rescue Techniques. Techniques used to rescue individuals from dangerous or hazardous water situations.
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). An emergency medical procedure performed to restore breathing and circulation in a person who has stopped breathing or whose heart has stopped beating.
First Aid. An immediate response to an injury or illness, typically involving basic medical treatment administered before professional medical help is available.
Oxygen Administration. The use of oxygen to supplement the body's natural oxygen supply in order to treat various medical conditions.
Emergency Protocols. Guidelines and procedures that should be followed in the event of an emergency.
Lifeguard Training. Training courses designed to prepare lifeguards to recognize, respond, and effectively manage aquatic emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of a lifeguard?

The primary responsibility of a lifeguard is to monitor activities at a beach, pool, or waterpark and provide a safe environment for swimmers by responding quickly and effectively in the event of an emergency.

What qualifications are needed to become a lifeguard?

To become a lifeguard, individuals must typically be certified in first aid, CPR, and water rescue techniques. Additionally, many employers require lifeguards to be at least 16 years old, possess strong swimming abilities, and have good communication and decision-making skills.

What types of emergencies can a lifeguard respond to?

A lifeguard can respond to various types of emergencies, such as drowning incidents, medical emergencies, hazardous weather conditions, and watercraft collisions.

How often do lifeguards need to be recertified?

Generally, lifeguards must be recertified annually to ensure they remain up-to-date on the latest safety protocols and techniques.

What type of attire do lifeguards typically wear?

Lifeguards typically wear a uniform consisting of a red t-shirt with their employer's logo, a pair of shorts or swim trunks, and sandals. Additionally, they often wear a whistle and a bright-colored cap.