Becoming a lifeguard is a great profession associated with responsibility, physical conditioning, and the opportunity to save lives. However, there are many misconceptions about lifeguarding that may discourage prospective candidates or set unrealistic expectations about the profession.
In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about lifeguarding and lifeguard certification while emphasizing the importance of proper training from legitimate organizations, such as the American Lifeguard Association (ALA).
Myth 1: Lifeguarding Is Just Sitting on the Beach All Day
Reality: Lifeguarding Requires Constant Vigilance and Quick Timing
Perhaps the most widely incorrect conception is the one where lifeguards are said to spend their time lounging by an umbrella. Lifeguards spend their time outdoors, but, more importantly, they train their specific hours and minutes of training to watch the water and also come quickly to the assistance of swimmers in trouble. A slight lapse of attention, for even a couple of seconds, can mean loss of life.
Lifeguard-welfare courses teach scanning techniques, emergency response protocols, and physical endurance in the ALA syllabus. A lifeguard must never relax alertness and always be ready to spring into action when required.
Myth 2: You Need to Be an Olympic-Level Swimmer to Become a Lifeguard
Reality: Good Swimmers Are Good, but Extreme Athleticism Becomes Important at Times
Being a good swimmer is a must for a lifeguard, but they do not have to excel at swimming. Certification classes evaluate swimming ability, but they aren’t so high that most can take the time to practice and pass them. These are typically the requirements for most programs:
- Swim an established distance (approximately 200 to 300 yards) in a straight line with no interruptions.
- Retrieve a weighted object from deep water.
- Tread water for a specified amount of time.
The training provided by the American Lifeguard Association helps candidates learn skills even though they may not be competitive swimmers. With some willingness and dedication, all able-bodied persons could pass the physical requirements.
Myth 3: Lifeguard Certification Is a Walk in the Park
Reality: Certification Requires Hard Work and Dedication
Many think that lifeguard certification is an easy task to accomplish within a few months. In truth, gaining certification is the process which includes:
- Classroom learning (CPR, first aid, AED use, rescue techniques)
- Hands-on training (simulated rescues, emergency scenarios)
- Written and practical exams.
The American Lifeguard Association and other reputable organizations provide certification only to able candidates. Training is strenuous because lives depend on a lifeguard being able to act in hard conditions.
Myth 4: Lifeguards Only Work at Beaches
Reality: There Are Various Places Where Lifeguards Are Needed
Although beach lifeguarding is comparatively visible, lifeguards perform their operations in many other environments:
- Swimming pools (public, private, and water parks)
- Lakes and rivers
- Summer camps
- Cruise ships
- Resort and hotel pools
These settings require different capabilities, and training programs like ALA certifications prepare lifeguards to carry out activities in different aquatic environments.
Myth 5: Lifeguarding Is Seasonal Employment Without Career Advancement
Reality: Lifeguarding Offers Year-Round Opportunities and Advancement
The assumption is that lifeguarding is only a summer job, yet there are full-time positions one can be hired for throughout the year, with indoor pools in particular being a hub for lifeguarding in the winter months. With that being said, a few of the jobs that experienced lifeguards may advance into are:
- Head lifeguard or supervisor
- Aquatics director
- Water safety instructor
- Emergency medical technician (EMT) or paramedic
Certification as a lifeguard enhances a resume in emergency player-type jobs, firefighting, law enforcement, and emergency medical services.
Myth 6: Lifeguards Save Drowning People Only
Reality: Range of Emergencies Involved
While water rescues are a major component of lifeguarding, a lot more first aid can include:
- Sprains, and cuts
- CPR and AED for cardiac arrest
- Enforce safety rules to avoid accidents
- Missing child occurrences
- Spinal injury rescue
The rules and regulations applied in lifeguard certification cover all these instances so that every lifeguard is prepared for any situation.
Myth 7: Once Certified, Lifeguards Don’t Need Ongoing Training
Reality: Training and Recertification Are Essential
Generally, lifeguard certifications are only valid for one to two years and must therefore be renewed after expiration. Skills can then lapse, and protocols may change. Hence, consistent training is fundamental. Many organizations also conduct in-service training to keep lifeguards immune from fading skills.
American Lifeguard Association and many others also provide recertification courses that keep lifeguards apprised about the latest safety standards.
Myth 8: Lifeguarding Is for Young People
Reality: Lifeguards Age All Over the Map
Many lifeguards are teenagers and college students; however, it is apt for adults of any age to take on this profession. Some facilities actually seek older lifeguards for their experience and professionalism. Age is not a barrier as long as the requirements are met and certification is maintained.
Myth 9: All Lifeguard Certifications are the Same
Reality: Certification Quality Varies
Not all lifeguard certificates are the same. The Accreditation Committee regulates certifications from certain agencies that are considered reputable, such as the American Lifeguard Association, which partake of standard national criteria and offers full training. Look out for the following signs when picking up a certification program:
- Recognized accreditation
- Hands-on rescue practice
- CPR/AED and first aid training
- Generally good feedback
Myth 10: Lifeguards Rarely Have to Make Rescues
Reality: Lifeguards Prevent and Respond to Emergencies Regularly
Some think lifeguards rarely meet real emergencies. Vigilant lifeguards tend to recognize high-risk and emergencies and act fast to produce positive deliberate action most times to avoid tragedies like drowning. Many near-drowning incidents go unaided by the lifeguards since their interventions were so timely that the case was never an incident in the lifeguards’ minds.
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Final Word: Lifeguarding Is a Noble and Genteel Profession
Lifeguarding is so much more than just a summer job; it is a skill-inspiring life-saving activity that requires precision, concentration, and much dedication. We hope that by removing the confusion, we encourage more people to take up lifeguard certification and start recognizing the importance of thorough training in that area.
For all interested in acquiring a lifeguarding career, reputable programs such as the American Lifeguard Association would be the right path toward receiving great preparation for this critical role. Wherever the pool, beach, or waterpark are, heaven knows your skill may be life to so many, or it may have a counter effect.
Are you ready for the challenge of certifying to become a qualified and skilled lifeguard? The water and its occupants need you!
