Listen to the Lifeguards

The past few years have been unusual for many reasons. Becoming a lifeguard is a noble profession that requires specialized training and expertise. Lifeguards are trained to be strong swimmers, and possess an eye for detail, which allows them to detect potential drowning situations and act swiftly in order to save lives.

Why You Should Listen to the Lifeguards

For younger swimmers, being a lifeguard may simply be a summer job for some extra money. For others, it is a lifelong calling. No matter the reason for a person becoming a lifeguard, it is a job that makes the difference between life and death.

When disaster strikes, these brave people are capable of saving the lives of swimmers and their loved ones. That said, why is it so important to have a lifeguard anyway?

Well, when someone is drowning, it is often one’s first instinct to jump in and try to help the person. However, as we’ve seen in past case studies, this can sometimes put the second person in just as much danger as the first. On the other hand, a lifeguard who is qualified to deal with specific dangerous situations can utilize their expertise to handle things with precision and skill.  

If you are in the water, you should listen to the lifeguard. These life-saving individuals are also trained in rescue skills like CPR, and have life saving equipment on hand, such as buoys and first aid kits. 

For these reasons and more, it is crucial to understand and respect the importance of having lifeguards present. When you listen to the lifeguards, it helps to keep you and other swimmers out of harms way. This is the case whether it’s the middle of the summer at a swimming pool or the middle of the winter while ice skating on a frozen lake.

Becoming a Lifeguard

To become a lifeguard, one must undergo proper certification in various areas related to water safety. Put simply, these include basic lifeguard training, CPR, and first aid. Finding a reliable organization that provides such training is crucial.

Fortunately, there are numerous organizations that offer courses and training. One of these is the American Red Cross. It provides year-round courses led by experienced professionals. The duration of these training sessions range from 15 to 30 hours, which is a significant investment of time.

However, it is essential to understand that water safety is a serious matter. Proper training ensures that lifeguards are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. We have provided more detailed information on how to become a lifeguard in a separate blog post.