Improvisation in a Life Guard Training Class

Last week I was at a lifeguard training class with a friend of mine. I know that it might sound a bit silly going for lifeguard training when the summer is almost over but getting training for being a lifeguard was something that we always wanted to do.

It's not that I planned to get a job as a lifeguard for next summer at a public pool or beach or at an Olympic pool in a university, I'm far too old for that and I already have a full-time job, it's just that as a parent I think it's very important to know CPR and first aid. I do not have the time or the money to commit to a full on EMT course although I would like to, but nevertheless I think it very important to know the bare minimum about what to do in an emergency.

Anyway Susie and I always thought it would be cool to be a lifeguard and this youthful fantasy coupled with the responsible desire to know how to react to medical emergency was enough to get the 'ok' from my husband and go ahead with the course. So we went to that class and sat down with a bunch of other people and the teacher walks in. now I can go through the lesion and drag you kicking and screaming through the introductory lesion. But I know that is not the reason that you are reading this article. The reason is to see what the improvisation is all about so here goes.

The teacher forgot to bring his dummy! I'm not taking about a dummy as in a stupid person, I'm talking about his CPR dummy. This was a big problem because if there is one thing that you need to have if you are going to give a class on CPR is a dummy to practice on. So we were sitting there trying to visualize what he was talking about and then it hit me! Way not use a mannequin! We were in a rented space that was on top of a clothing store and along the walls of the room that we were in were hanger racks and other store junk that you normal wouldn't pay attention to.

So I raised my hand and suggested that we improve using the mannequins and the instructor thought it was a great idea!. What's important is what that thinking out of the box and having a can do approach is what makes situation bearable an gives you the edge you need to get things done despite the challenges involved.

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Continuing Training: 4 Ways to Keep Your Skills Sharp and Become a Better Lifeguard

Congratulations, you've just obtained your lifeguard certification. You are moving up in this world. On your way to becoming the hero of the beach! But hold on, before you let your new certification get to your head, there is one important thing you need to realize. You haven't learned everything there is to know about lifeguarding. In fact, you've only learned a fraction of it. While the certification courses do a great job at teaching you the basics of being a lifeguard, you will learn so much more through experience on the job and through additional training. So while you are well on your way to become an actual lifeguard, get ready for more testing and training. Here are some examples of what you can expect to face in the coming months.

Pre-employment Evaluation: Before you become employed, it is common for the employer to require you to go through a pre-employment evaluation. The assessment will usually consist of a controlled rescue scenario that gives the employer the opportunity to assess your skill level. This will likely be similar to your pre-certification testing with some added skills which are the most common. The evaluation may also be part of a state regulation or insurance requirement.

Preseason Training: As most lifeguards are seasonal employees, preseason training is a necessity to sharpen your skills that may have become rusty in the off season. In the preseason you will usually have the chance to review CPR/AED and First Aid skills along with lifeguarding skills. You should also use this time to become familiar again with the facility you will be working at. Most importantly, as a lifeguard you are working as a member of a team. The preseason is an excellent time to develop that important camaraderie that will help you team get into top form for the season.

Facility Policies and Procedures: Every facility will have a set of policies and procedures. In the preseason, you should get a copy of the updated policy and procedures manual. It is important that you are knowledgeable about all the policies of your specific facility. This is also a good time to review your facilities emergency action plan. As an emergency situation usually deals with life and death, it is important that you are very aware of your facilities emergency action plan.

In-Service Training: During the season your employer should give you an opportunity to attend in-service training. Much like preseason training, in-service training will give you an opportunity to sharpen your skills with the other lifeguards that are on the team with you. This is another great time to build that chemistry that will make your lifeguard team great. Make sure that you are able to attend every in-service training as this shows your employer that you are dedicated and shows your teammates that you are always there for them as well.

Like any other job, lifeguarding requires practice to become proficient. Knowing about the different types of training you will participate in will help you be prepared for that training. Make sure that you are prepared for each training session and approach them as opportunities to become a better lifeguard.

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