Why YOU Should Train to Become a Lifeguard
Wearing flip flops, a bathing suit and shorts all year round may not seem feasible in Winterpeg, but if you get a job as a lifeguard that is the reality. If working on your swimming skills, serving the community and being the highlight of a child’s memory is apart of your ideal job. Becoming a lifeguard is the right job for you. Watch a video here on why you should become a lifeguard. Below we will be outlining all the exciting benefits that can come from being a lifeguard and why you may want to take a lifeguard class and join in on the fun.
HAVING FUN
Lifeguarding is a popular job with flexible hours and the much-coveted opportunity to stay beside the pool or on the beach. This means making money whilst getting a tan under the sun – not something you can boast about at an ordinary office job. Working somewhere that you can feel comfortable but also gain valuable skills is a rare thing. As it is a slightly more relaxed position when not on duty, you have plenty of time to explore the pools and jump into the water. A great way to keep up a healthy lifestyle.
BENEFITS FOR SELF
The promise of swimming and beaches attracts many to the idea of being a lifeguard, but the pros go even further than this. The training given to become a lifeguard develops you into a well-rounded mature person. It is essential to develop communication skills, learn how to make quick and vital decisions, and develop a sense of responsibility. Communicating effectively is a huge advantage in life. This will help with interpersonal relationships and work-based discussions. These skills can easily transfer into future jobs or be the first step to a lifeguarding career.
The self-confidence that being a lifeguard provides is immensely satisfying, knowing you’re a pro in the water who is trusted to look after so many. To pursue your interests at a higher level and know that your work allows others to feel safe can feel incredible.
A part-time lifeguarding job also provides training that benefits future employment. If pursuing a lifeguard career is not what you want to do in the future, then the skills that you developed during lifeguard training can still be transferred into different roles. This includes basic first aid, learning to properly administer CPR and AED, working with diverse age and cultural groups or being able to make difficult decisions. Some jobs require these skills, especially being first aid certified, so acquiring them early in your life is a great decision.
BENEFITS TO OTHERS
What bigger benefit is there to a lifeguarding job than having training that equips you to save lives! So many people are good swimmers, but actual lifesaving takes extra training. Being able to spot danger signs, give first aid or administer CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and AED (automated external defibrillator) whenever needed is an indispensable skill. Being a lifeguard is not only a way to get paid, but it also ensures the safety of those around you.
Lifeguards are also an essential part of any community; working at community pools and beaches allows lifeguards to have big impacts on children and youth in the community. Leading by example, lifeguards educate the people that visit their facility on water safety and encourage positive and healthy lifestyles. Just having more young people know about water safety means that the training goes further than just work. It means that the community is safer as a whole. More lifeguards allow for communities to engage in sports properly, such as swimming and diving, while mitigating risks.
How To Become a Lifeguard
Navigating all the different courses you need to be a certified lifeguard can be challenging. The Rady JCC suggests finding out where you would hope to work and what certifications they require. Most facilities ask that lifeguards have their Standard First Aid & Lifesaving Society National Lifeguard Pool. But some also obtain a swim instructor certification. However, if you just want to become a lifeguard, follow these steps below:
Want to learn more? Read the below brochure for all the important information.
How To Become A Lifeguard – Brochure (PDF)