What does a Lifeguard do?
A Lifeguard maintains the safety of swimmers through observation of their surroundings, uses verbal and flag signal communications to swimmers and quickly responds to emergencies using rescue procedures. They enforce rules, observe weather and water conditions and intervene if there is rough and dangerous play. Lifeguards work in a variety of environments. Some work at pool areas in municipal recreation areas, privately owned swim clubs, schools and hotels, while others work at beaches or large aquatic centres and water parks.
Lifeguard skills and qualifications
Lifeguards need a variety of skills and qualifications to perform their duties and responsibilities effectively. successful Lifeguard candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that include:
- Ability to evaluate water conditions at the beach, aquatics facilities or offsite natural pools, rivers or streams to identify any potential hazards or dangers
- Ability to adjust water programmes to make sure visitors and other staff are safe
- Swimming skills and comfort in all kinds of water conditions
- Ability to evaluate and judge the changing dynamics of people taking part in aquatic activities to immediately determine their strengths and weaknesses, as well as the threats to their safety
- In-depth knowledge of safety policies, on-site protocols and operational procedures
- In-depth knowledge of techniques and methods for providing medical services in the event of an emergency
Lifeguard experience requirements
Lifeguards must have a full driver’s licence, previous experience in a similar role and at least two years of experience in rescue and recovery. They must also have several years of experience using various emergency equipment, such as the automated external defibrillator (AED). They must also have experience in emergency oxygen administration, in-line stabilisation procedures, rescue aids and with methods such as the use of lifebuoys and poles.
Lifeguard education and training requirements
Lifeguards must have at least a the minimum General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSEs) in English and maths or diplomas from higher education colleges. While they don’t need a degree to perform their job, they must have a National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ) or a Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ). Lifeguards must also have valid certificates in CPR, AED, first aid, emergency oxygen administration therapy and in-line spinal stabilisation. Pool Lifeguards must have a valid responder certificate in addition to their NPLQ. Some employers require lifeguards to obtain Disclosure and Barring Service qualifications (DBS) eligibility or an International Pool Lifeguard Certificate.
Lifeguard salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Lifeguard is £9.14 per hour. This figure varies depending on factors, such as the company, experience and geographical location.
Job description samples for similar positions
Other job description samples are available if this is not quite what you’re looking for: