If you usually go to the beach or swimming pools, you will have noticed that there is always one or several lifeguards to ensure everyone’s safety. A completely necessary job to avoid accidents and for which it is mandatory to have specific training.
Spain is a country of beaches and swimming pools. Few things are more satisfying when the hot months begin than getting rid of it with a good dip. If we take into account the beaches of our country, we are talking about more than 8,000 kilometres of coastline, a huge amount. While if we talk about pools the number is over a million. And this is when the role of the lifeguard comes in, who is the one who watches over the safety of bathers in these places.
And if we have said that Spain is one of the countries with the most kilometres of beaches and with an inordinate number of swimming pools, you may think that it will need a large number of lifeguards. And so it is. It is a highly demanded profession, especially during the summer months, which is perfect for those looking for a new job.
What to study to be a lifeguard?
The first thing we must be clear about is that it is a profession that requires a specific degree to be able to develop it. Specifically, we are talking about the title of Sports Technician in Rescue and First Aid, which can be obtained through private and public institutions. In this sense, the one that has the greatest relevance and reputation is the one offered by the Red Cross.
In addition to obtaining it through the Red Cross, it can also be obtained by taking courses such as Lifeguarding in Aquatic Facilities or Lifeguarding in Natural Aquatic Spaces. With this certification, we will be able to practice the profession on beaches, swimming pools, lakes, swamps and water parks.
Also Read About: How long does it take to become a lifeguard?
Requirements to be a lifeguard
However, it is not enough to want to be a lifeguard, period. In order to take these courses that train us at a professional level to work in this type of position, it is necessary to meet some prerequisites :
- Be over 16 years old.
- Should be in good physical shape.
- Have knowledge of swimming.
- Pass practical and theoretical tests.
The lifeguard training course
Regardless of the course, you decide to become a lifeguard, you will have to face two different tests during your lifeguard training. One of them is related to a theoretical syllabus in which we will be offered knowledge of first aid, legislation and rescue. While the practical part requires the performance of different tests that, if not passed, prevent obtaining the degree. These practice tests are as follows:
- Freediving test of 25 meters.
- Freestyle swimming test with a 200-meter route to be completed in less than 4 minutes.
- Simulation of a rescue situation.
- Drag an unconscious person into the water.
Being a lifeguard is often seen as just a summer job for young students, as it is a seasonal job in many parts of the country and does not usually demand a high salary or include benefits. It can become a full-time career, however, if employment is through a cruise line or an inland club or facility that needs lifeguards year-round. With extended lifeguard training, a lifeguard can also become a water safety instructor or swim instructor or coach, both of which pay considerably more than a lifeguard position.
- Life preservers can be spread along an ocean beach to keep swimmers safe.
- Lifesaving accessories may include whistles.
The main role of lifeguard training is to make sure that everyone in his charge is safe. To improve the view of the area of responsibility, a lifeguard often sits in a high chair overlooking the pool area or beach. In larger open water areas, lifeguards are frequently in rowboats to patrol the area. Binoculars are standard tools for most first responders.