Some important information regarding Lifeguarding

The most well-known variant of lifeguarding or rescue swimming is the so-called transport swimming. It is performed in two variants, namely as a jerk swim and as a push swim. Both variants are often taught as rescue techniques in swimming lessons at schools.

What is a lifeguard at work?

A lifeguard training from The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) teaches that the rescue work includes all activities that directly serve to rescue people in need swimming in the water, floating on the water or having fun near the water with non-swimming or floating means.

How can a lifeguard get into the water? During the lifeguard training at ALA is made very clear that even in an emergency, a lifeguard needs to know how to enter the water, how to approach the person, what to expect and how to get the person safely to shore. To get into the water, he or she chooses the safest route and not necessarily the fastest.

What are the duties of a lifeguard?

However, people’s lives depend on the work of a lifeguard. So you have to be able to concentrate well and not be too easily distracted. You also have to be able to work in a team, because most of the time you are not alone, but working together with a team of rescuers.

How are they trained to be lifeguards?

During the lifeguard training, the helpers acquire theoretical and practical knowledge about rescuing injured people in the water. You will learn how to transport, tow and bring a person in distress to shore. The training enables the lifeguards to assess risks and dangers and to protect themselves during a rescue operation.

Handling Sea Hazards

Rip currents or rush sea waves are one of the most dangerous sea hazards for the swimmers, especially for unskilled or inexperienced swimmers, which can be extremely dangerous. We, therefore, at ALA practically and theoretically teach about these rip currents and train our students to handle any kind of situation caused by this sea hazard.

These sea currents often originate near the banks of the sea where sand is present, apart from that they are also caused by piers and are formed on any beach that has breaking waves. The swimmers who are not experienced enough lose too much of their energy when trying to swim to the shore with all the might they have. 

The solution to this problem is to keep calm and try to swim parallel to the beach. Keep doing so until this current slowdown. Do not panic and try to get noticed by the lifeguard so that you can get help.

What techniques help in rescue work?

In order to choose the right technique, the lifeguard is trained in various jumping techniques and informed about the dangers. In unfamiliar and murky water, a safe jump or pack jump helps reduce the risk of injury in shallow water or from underwater objects.

Which breathing techniques help with physical complaints?

Breathing techniques also help reduce the physical discomfort associated with pain. Conscious breathing calms the body and mind and promotes physical activity.

What are lifeguards’ skills?

You are able to initiate rescue measures and have extensive knowledge of first aid. From an elevated position, the rescuers monitor activities in and in front of the water.

What are the rescue methods in the rescue service?

Find out about the rescue methods used in lifeguarding services and learn about lifeguard training at The American Lifeguard Association. Rescue means all activities related to rescuing people in distress in or on the water. Both floating and non-swimming activities are used.

How is lifeguard training conducted?

Lifeguard training is mainly conducted by water rescue organizations. The American Lifeguard Association provides a number of courses based on your age, swimming skills and deep and shallow water phobia. There is a slight difference between pool sight lifeguard training and beach lifeguard training offered at the ALA.