When you become a lifeguard, you are trained in water rescue and first aid. Lifeguards also have certification in CPR and hold American Lifeguard Professional Rescuer Certificates. Some jobs, such as daycare work, for instance, require lifeguard certification, even though these types of employees do not use skills obtained through lifeguard training on a daily basis. Other lifeguard jobs such as public pools and swim coaches require regular use of lifeguard skills. Most lifeguards work at public swimming pools, beaches, lakes, and water parks as well as pools for clubs, lodging facilities, schools, and athletic associations.
Beach Lifeguard
One of the most common lifeguard jobs that come to mind is a beach lifeguard. Depending on where you live, you may be able to find employment year round. However, some beaches are only served by lifeguards during the busiest months of year, typically in the summer. In addition to general lifeguard duties, beach lifeguards must be prepared for naturally occurring events and emergencies such as high tides and shark attacks. Another aspect of working at a public beach is the likelihood that you will encounter intoxicated swimmers who are much more likely to drown as a result of their alcohol consumption.
Swim Coach
As someone who works with swimmers on a constant basis in and around the water, a swim coach is also considered a lifeguard. As such, a swim coach also needs to be prepared to perform an emergency rescue in case of possible drownings or swimming-related injuries. To become a swim coach, you must have certification in First Aid, CPR, and safety training specifically designed for swim coaches. Prospective swim coaches must also take the necessary steps to become a certified lifeguard in order to practice their occupation.
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Seasonal Lifeguard Jobs
Most cities and communities have outdoor swimming pools available to the public that are only open during the summer months when school is out of session. Outdoor swimming pools are a great place for lifeguards who are still in school to find summer employment. Another seasonal lifeguard job that is ideal for school age workers is at water parks. Theme parks can be found throughout the U.S. and range from mild shallow water parks for younger children to raging river mega parks with dozens of water rides. Typically, lifeguards who work at theme parks are allowed to join in the water park fun after work hours as an added perk. Working at summer camps that have swimming pool and/or lake access is another seasonal job that requires lifeguard certification. Camp counselors most likely do not serve solely as lifeguards, but they typically lead campers in water sports, such as fishing, canoeing, rowing, and kayaking.
Other Lifeguard Jobs
Day care workers are considered impromptu lifeguards. Employees at day care facilities are expected to have lifeguard certification if they take children to a community pool or a swimming pool on site, or to a nearby water park or lake.
If you are interested in finding lifeguard jobs, begin in your community. Check with private housing communities and country clubs to see if they are hiring lifeguards. Contact community pools and school swim clubs for information about how to apply for a lifeguard job. Above all, be sure to have your lifeguard certification up-to-date and ready to show your potential employers so that you can snag the right opportunity as soon as it arises.
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