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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