How Difficult is Lifeguard Training?

Lifeguards are responsible for protecting people in and around water at beaches, pools, lakes, and other aquatic facilities. They help prevent drowning and other injuries while aiding with search-and-rescue operations. Moreover, lifeguards instruct patrons about swimming safety regulations as well as other water-related matters.

Becoming a Lifeguard: Be Prepared

If you want to become a lifeguard, it’s wise to get the appropriate training. You will need basic swimming, first aid, CPR and other rescue techniques as well as be physically fit with good swim technique. Furthermore, being able to communicate with fellow guards during emergencies is essential.

The Lifeguard Test: Not for the Weak

Before beginning any further training classes, you must pass the American Red Cross’ basic lifeguard certification test. This exam tests your swimming ability to swim 300 yards of front crawl or breaststroke, tread water for two minutes using only your legs, and swim 10 yards with a 20-pound weight attached to your body.

After passing the exam, you must attend a 16-week lifeguard training program. Here, according to the parks department, you will learn rescue techniques and first aid.

Be punctual and determined to work hard; otherwise, you could find yourself in hot water if you miss your shifts. To prevent such issues from arising, ensure you are physically fit and practice swimming before beginning the course.

Boost Your Fitness Level: The American Red Cross offers swimming classes designed to improve speed and endurance for the lifeguard test. They’re held at Constance Baker Motley Recreation Center on East 54th Street in Manhattan, where instructors provide personalized assessment tips that can help swimmers reduce their times.

Swimming requirements of the test can be tough, but they’re part of what makes being a lifeguard so rewarding. Those who pass must receive an American Red Cross certification in lifeguarding, first aid, CPR and AED that lasts two years.

Passing Your Exam: Passing the lifeguard exam can be challenging, but you can increase your chances of passing by working with a coach and taking the test in advance. Additionally, you may purchase a study guide for Red Cross testing materials online.

Retaking Your Exam: If you fail the Red Cross exam, you can retake it at no cost if you have a friend or family member who will act as an observer during your retest. Otherwise, there will be a fee to retake the test.

Recruitment New York City Lifeguards: With the summer season quickly approaching and demand for lifeguards on beaches and pools across NYC increasing, recruitment of qualified personnel can be a challenge. Last year the Department of Parks and Recreation experienced an acute shortage of staff at many beaches and pools throughout the city.