So ya wanna be a lifeguard
eh?
That was a fun job but it was longggg ago. It
was a lot tougher than it looks. This is what you will have to do to be a lifeguard (NOTE:
In addition to the below, when I first qualified, I had to also complete a mile
swim...again, tougher than it sounds).
If you would like to be a lifeguard, you will have to meet the Red Cross prerequisites as
well as complete both written, and physical skill examinations.
Lifeguarding
Prerequisites
Minimum age 15 by end of course Tread water
for 2 minutes using legs only. Participants cross their arms across their chest.
Swim 500 yards continuously using each of
the following strokes for at least 100 yards: crawl, breaststroke, and sidestroke. (The
stroke(s) used for the remaining 200 yards are the participants' choice.)
Submerge to a minimum depth of 7 feet,
retrieve a 10-pound object, and return to the surface.
Lifesaving
Techniques:
Both written and physical/skill examination of the ability to perform the following;
Give CPR on land
Basic Red Cross First Aid including
The proper approach and rescue of victims
Lifesaving Procedures
Simulated victim search in lake (I had to
anyway)
Rescue carries for a variety of victim
situations.
Successfully complete two written exams with
a minimum score of 80 percent.
Successfully complete two final skill
scenarios.
Successfully perform all critical skills.
Certificate
Validity:
Lifeguard Training (including first aid): 3 years
CPR for the Professional Rescuer: 1 year |
