How to be a Good Pool Lifeguard
by Maria (a RW 7 student)
Pool lifeguards have a very important job
because they are responsible for the safety of all pool users. I worked as pool
lifeguard during summers while I was studying at the University. Even though for
some people it seems to be easy, being a lifeguard is not sunbathing. A good
pool lifeguard has to be trained in rescue, first aid, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation
(CPR), but also he/she has to be responsible and professional doing his/her job.
The first step to becoming a good pool lifeguard
is to enroll in a training course, and take the lessons very seriously.
Qualified instructors teach the candidates theoretical concepts about laws,
accident prevention, rescue procedures, first aid, and more, and then they have
to develop their skills practicing all these techniques. Outside the pool, they
should practice first aid knowledge, like the recovery position for
semiconscious or unconscious persons, or CPR for someone who is having
breathing problems. At the pool, they have to train aquatic simulations to
ensure that they are ready to act in real cases.
After studying and practicing very hard, the
candidates have to pass theoretical and practical tests successfully. For
example, in order to pass the practical test they must be able to swim, tow a
partner, and get him out of the pool in a limited time. Therefore, they need
speed and accuracy doing the rescue.
Once they pass the tests, they are ready to
work. The most important thing in this step is to be professional. To achieve
this goal they should be responsible to prevent accidents and ensure the safety
of the pool users. They do not allow disorderly conduct and are not distracted
with phone calls or friends.
Being a lifeguard implies big responsibilities
to ensure the safety for everyone who goes into the pool. This requires
training to manage emergencies successfully, pass specific tests, and be
professional.
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