The question that every new lifeguard asks is, what will my first day as a lifeguard be like? Feeling confident and prepared on your first day is very important. Being ready means you can focus on your number one responsibility: keeping people safe.

What do I need to bring to my first day as a lifeguard?

Although you may think that you don’t need to bring much to your lifeguarding job, you actually do. It might help to have a specific bag that you only use for your lifeguard stuff. Here is a checklist of items you will need:

1. Lifeguard uniform
2. Sunglasses to block water’s glare
3. Lifeguard whistle
4. Sunblock
5. Water bottle(s) to stay hydrated in the heat
6. Snacks and/or meals
7. A towel
8. CPR Mask
9. Lifeguard certifications
10. CPR certifications
11. Hats (optional but useful)
12. Sweatshirt (in case there is a shift in weather like a cold front or rain)

Once you have made sure that all of those items are stowed away in your bag, you are ready to get to the pool!

So, what will my first day as a lifeguard be like?

The thought of your first day as a lifeguard may seem scary, but it shouldn’t be!

Before your first day, be sure to review your skill book or lifeguard manual to ensure that you are prepared to perform your responsibilities and respond in an emergency situation. Studying these skills consistently throughout the summer will keep you vigilant.

During your shift, you will need to sit on your lifeguard chair with the guard tube across your lap and the tube strap around your body. In the chair, you will need to constantly scan the water, making sure that all of the patrons are behaving in a safe manner. Be prepared to blow your whistle, take authority and firmly, but respectfully, correct any unsafe actions. Consciously sit in a position that will help you stay alert and focused.

Aside from your lifeguard duties, you need to stay hydrated! Make sure that you are constantly drinking large amounts of water or else you will dehydrate and feel sick.  Also, be sure to eat. Even though you are just sitting, the summer heat really takes a toll on your body after numerous hours – food will help to restore your energy.

In the end, your first day as a lifeguard will be a great new experience if you are well prepared. To ensure a successful day, make sure to pack your bag correctly, constantly watch patrons for safe behavior, take control of dangerous situations and stay hydrated!

Lifeguarding is an extremely fun and rewarding job. By being prepared and ready for work, you will ensure a great summer as a lifeguard.

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Spring has finally sprung and the warmer weather can only mean one thing—lifeguard season is right around the corner! Before you track down your whistle and pull on your uniform, follow these steps to prepare for resuming your lifeguard position.

Connect with your employer. Is your old position still available? Reach out to your employer with the dates and times you’ll be able to work, or start searching for a new location who is hiring lifeguards. Guard For Life has a bunch of resources that will help you find the right fit!

Practice your skills. As a lifeguard, you should be confident in your swimming ability. However, it’s still a good idea to practice your skills before you hop back in the chair. Interval training or drills, either solo or with some of your lifeguard buddies, will help you get into your best shape by the time you’re back to work.

Review the manual. Just like you should prepare for the physical demands of lifeguarding, you should also study up on the material in your lifeguarding manual to be best prepared for your first day of work. Reviewing this information as often as possible will help you be ready in case of an emergency on the job.

Get recertified. The American Red Cross certificates for CPR/AED training for lifeguards expire after two years. It’s very important to ensure your certifications are up-to-date before you can serve as a lifeguard. If your certification has expired, attend a training course in your area. For some Red Cross courses, you may be able to take a review course to renew your certification. To be eligible for a review course, your certification cannot have been expired for more than twelve months prior to the course. Because of changes made in the last year, you’ll also need to retake the OSHA Chemical Handling and Bloodborne Pathogens training course if you’re required to handle pool chemicals. The Bloodborne Pathogens training is required annually, as well, so be sure to register for a course through Guard For Life.

Once you’ve checked off all the steps above, the only things left to do are stock up on sunscreen and get pumped for another great summer of lifeguarding!

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We scoured the internet to find you the best and most helpful lifeguard safety videos. Take a second (or two) to check out these videos:

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It’s that time of the year again – the weather’s warming up and the pools are reopening. That means pool management will be looking for seasonal lifeguards, so it’s time to break out the swimwear and review lifeguard standards.

Whether you’ve been a lifeguard before or are thinking about applying for the first time, you know how important the job is. You’ll have to be trained and certified, and when the pools open, you’ll be responsible for everybody’s safety. It’s a serious job, but it’s also serious fun – you’ll be spending your summers at the pool, tanning and saving lives. Can it get any better?

Well, it does. Not only will you have a job for the summer, you’ll be able to brag about all these great facts about lifeguards.

1. Be a part of history: Sure, your friend working at the local electronics store may be getting discounts on smartphones, but that job has only existed in the past few decades. As a lifeguard, you’ll be joining a profession that’s existed for 200 years. To put that into perspective, the United States was founded in 1776. It’s a time-honored job that you’ll be proud to be a part of.

2. Boast a lofty title: Ever wanted to be referred to as the “someone” of the “something” or “somewhere?” Well, want no longer! The title of the first lifeguard in 1855 was the “Constable of the Surf.” Sure, swimmers and their families will still call you “lifeguard,” but neither you nor your friends have to. Given this fact, being a “seller of smartphones” may not be as tempting of a job as it may have been in the past!

3. Use the latest and greatest tool: In today’s world, the coolest products are usually the newest ones. But all modern technology comes from somewhere, and only after different models had been developed and improved. This is true of rescue boards. The first one was developed sometime between 1910 and 1915 – that’s before the Roaring Twenties! It may not have a touch screen, but it definitely has real-life applications.

4. Be a leading man or lady: Here’s a fun fact you’ll never get tired of sharing: Jack Nicholson, Jake Gyllenhaal and Clint Eastwood were all lifeguards. Chances are, not many of your friends will be able to say the same. Who knows? Maybe you’ll follow in their footsteps and wind up in Hollywood someday.

5. Alternatively, lead the country: Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, was a lifeguard. If Hollywood isn’t your style, maybe the White House is! Reagan proved how important the work of a lifeguard is. He saved 77 lives in seven summers. Imagine going back to school with those bragging rights.

6. Plan for the future: Being a lifeguard requires a lot of skills, including responsibility, attention to detail, guest service and more. Listing a lifeguard job on your resume packs a serious punch that’ll put you at the top.

7. Learn lifelong skills: You’ll learn new skills at any job, but being a lifeguard gives you useful lifelong skills, such as CPR, first aid and AED training.

8. Work out: Why spend your summer cooped up indoors when you can be a lifeguard? You’ll enjoy the outdoors, work out and learn life skills. Lifeguards are strong, fast and know the water.

9. Make lifelong friends: Nothing forges a bond quite like ensuring safety and saving lives. Your friends list will grow when you become a lifeguard, and these are people you’ll be friends with for life.

10. Burn calories: You won’t have to worry about finding time to go to the gym when you become a lifeguard. Swimming burns 650 calories per hour – that’s more than walking or biking!

11. Go with GFL: Want to join a team that’s as unique as you are? Guard For Life is a one-of-a-kind lifeguard program from American Pool.

12. Join an elite team: Whether you’ll be working at a one- or multi-lifeguard pool, you can rest easy knowing you’re part of a team. American Pool employs over 6,500 lifeguards a year.

13. Win prizes: Nothing is quite as rewarding as being recognized for your hard work and being given a prize. Last summer, Guard For Life gave away 139 prizes to lifeguards just for being awesome.

The post 14 Reasons to become a lifeguard appeared first on Guard For Life.

Spending the summer by the water and in the sun, lifeguarding can be a fun job—but it also requires a lot of diligence and responsibility. This week, we’d like to congratulate two lifeguards who have exemplified these qualities and shown commitment to outstanding performance at their pool: Collin Groves and Lindsay Mallott.

Frequent pool patron John J. Gannon submitted a heartfelt testimonial on their behalf, calling for both guards to be recognized for their professional drive and attentiveness. He praised Groves for his “outstanding response” last week as Groves rushed to the aid of a swimmer in trouble. Gannon said that his family regularly swims at the pool and that he has noticed Groves’ “professional sense of duty on numerous other occasions as well,” but wanted to extend his thanks for the guard’s “timely response” in aiding a swimmer in distress. John also shared that Groves’ fellow guard Mallott has demonstrated “sustained professional comportment and attentiveness to her duties” that warrants recognition.

At Guard For Life, we’re proud to congratulate these two lifeguards for their professional spirit and outstanding dedication to safety.

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Hollywood gets things wrong, which is why Baywatch is full of mistakes. If on-screen clichés were true, everyone would wake up with perfect hair, every college dorm room would be the size of a small villa, and every person in high school would look twenty four years old. Sometimes misconceptions on television are so common that they are slowly woven into the fabric of reality.  It should not come as a surprise that Hollywood does not portray a realistic lifeguard.

Some major lifeguarding misconceptions come from watching lifeguards on television and in movies. Read these three mistakes to learn how to avoid them:

Misconception #1 : CPR is done gently Every single time there is a scene with someone performing CPR the actor is shown in a seated position, pumping their elbows, gently pressing on the victim, and repeating, “Come on, you’re going to make it!”

Reality: There is a reason you are given a certification for learning CPR; it’s hard. Just remember to follow your training by kneeling, keeping your arms locked, and compressing the chest the correct amount.

Misconception #2 : Drowning victims are noisy On-screen victims loudly splash around yelling, “Please help me” until they eventually sink slowly below the surface.

Reality: Often victims do not realize that they are in trouble until they are submerged. Watch the video below for an example of how quiet victims can be, and why you need to stay vigilant.

Misconception #3 : Rescuing a person is no big deal  The heroic Hollywood lifeguard gazes into the camera and calmly says, “it’s all in a day’s work ma’am” after rescuing a drowning victim from a pack of ravenous  sharks. He then nonchalantly returns to his stand and continues to sun bathe.

Reality: The moment you recognize that action is needed your heart races. This is okay! It’s perfectly normal to be nervous. Just make sure you remain calm and focused. Thankfully in emergencies, you have trained for every situation and are prepared. You can rely on your training knowledge and procedure to help you through your anxiety. Understanding this will help you to lifeguard better.

Now you know truth. So remember not to copy what Baywatch did because you’re a better lifeguard.

The post How to lifeguard better than the cast of Baywatch appeared first on Guard For Life.

It has nothing to do with the bat mobile and it’s not because drowning victims conveniently shine bat symbols into the sky. It’s because Batman and Robin are a team, which is necessary for lifeguard rotations.

This dynamic duo works like a well oiled machine and that’s exactly how lifeguard rotations should be. Don’t get confused by the “I” in lifeguard because teamwork is an essential aspect of maintaining a safe pool. While lifeguards are getting in and out the chair it’s important that they look out for each other… literally.

The relief lifeguard should scan the area as they approach. Most importantly the incoming guard needs to continue to scan as the outgoing guard climbs down from the stand. Also, the outgoing lifeguard needs to scan the area as the incoming lifeguard climbs up. This way the pool is never unattended.

If Gotham City were a giant pool, Robin would vigilantly scan until Batman came down, and you know Batman wouldn’t leave Robin hanging as he climbed up.

It’s also important that the two guards communicate. The outgoing guard should inform the incoming guard of any potential hazards. For example, Batman might tell Robin, “Please keep an eye on Bane because he’s not a strong swimmer” or “Be aware that Catwoman is standing close to the edge and doesn’t know how to swim.”

Watch this video to understand the importance of teamwork and to understand the proper protocol for lifeguard rotations.

In the words of Ariana Grande, keeping your eyes and hands off of your phone while lifeguarding gives you, “One less, one less problem.” We all know that it’s dangerous to text and drive, but it’s important to remember that texting while guarding puts other people in danger.
Lifeguards should never let themselves be distracted while guarding. While patrons can sometimes be distracting, especially a league of marco polo players, cell phones are always a distraction. It’s important to remember how quickly and quietly someone can drown. Lifeguards using cell phones are not paying attention and have their heads down, the opposite of everything they are trained to do!

As if it wasn’t terrible enough that texting while guarding is dangerous for patrons, you are also putting your poor and defenseless cell phone at risk. You’re a lifeguard, getting wet is part of the job description. Cell phones have tons of capabilities, but swimming is not one of them. Water can destroy the precious phone that you waited forever for until it was finally released. A friend could push you in the pool after work, a sudden storm could drench you, and your phone could fall out of your pocket as you test the pool. The bottom line is that using your cell phone while lifeguarding is dangerous for everyone.

So remember to take Iggy Azalea’s approach in “Problem” and tell your phone;

“In no time I’ll be forgettin’ all about you
You sayin’ that you know
But I really really doubt you
Understand my life is easy
When I ain’t around you.”

Watch the video below for information about how lifeguards can avoid texting while guarding and the dangers cell phones can cause.

The post Lifeguards need to tell their Cell Phones, “I’ve got one less problem without ya” appeared first on Guard For Life.

     Your suit is red, your fanny pack is red, and your rescue tube is… you guessed it, red! Red however is a terrible color for lifeguards when it comes to their skin. Applying the appropriate sunscreen is extremely important for your health because it helps to protect you from skin cancer. As if that wasn’t enough of a reason, it’s also a crucial part of preserving your awesome looks.

Do you know enough about sunscreen? Here are a few tips:

1. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the top of your head and your ears. These are easy places to miss. Spray sunscreen makes reaching these places much easier.
2. Being by water increases the intensity of the sun because rays are reflected. For this reason, make sure that you apply sunscreen under your chin where the light can reflect upward.
3. Make sure you use at least SPF 15; however, SPF 30 is recommended. Higher SPFs need to be reapplied as frequently as lower ones, so using a high SPF does not guarantee that you are covered for the day.

Sunscreen is always important, but it’s especially important for lifeguards. If you want to look like a smart and experienced lifeguard, you need to wear your red suit, fanny pack, and rescue tube. If you want to look like a newb, all you have to do is rock some bright red burned skin. So remember, red is a terrible color for lifeguards when it comes to their skin.

To stay protected you could also bathe in sunscreen evil queen style.

The post Why Red is a Terrible Color for Lifeguards appeared first on Guard For Life.

If you’re interested in working at a pool this school year or even next summer, it’s important to know that lifeguarding is just one of many potential job options. From entry-level positions to ones that build upon your years of lifeguarding experience, there are a variety of jobs available at most pools in your area, including some jobs at indoor pools that are great for the off-season. Here’s a rundown of jobs you’ll typically find.

Gate Guard
Being a gate guard is a good way to get you start working for your local pool, especially if you’re not old enough to lifeguard. As a gate guard, you monitor the main entrance of the pool, collect fees and check passes. A gate guard does not necessarily need to go through certification and training like a lifeguard does, so you won’t need any up-front time commitment.

Lifeguard
A certified lifeguard is responsible for maintaining a safe swimming environment. Lifeguards enforce rules and make sure the pool and facility are safe, among other responsibilities. It’s a resume builder with flexible hours, making it a perfect fit for high school and college students, as well as adults. Once you have a couple summers of lifeguarding experience under your belt, you’ll also be able to move up to positions with more responsibility at the pool. If you want to lifeguard all year long, and not just over the summer, consider a job at an indoor pool.

Swim Instructor
A swim instructor can work at both indoor and outdoor pools teaching lessons to swimmers of all ages. Swim instructors are typically required to have lifeguard and CPR certifications, but may have more flexible schedules. You may also be able to teach swim lessons in addition to your lifeguard shifts.

Pool Manager/Assistant Manager
A pool manager supervises the staff and is ultimately responsible for maintaining a safe environment at the pool. A pool manager also makes sure the pool has the right level of chemicals, keeps records, and does staff evaluations, among other duties. Being a manager requires a minimum of two years of lifeguarding or relevant experience, so it’s a great goal to work toward after you’ve gotten a few summers under your belt and feel ready for more responsibility.

Supervisor
A supervisor is responsible for overseeing operations and personnel at about 10 to 12 pools in your area. Supervisors also jump in wherever needed, whether that means getting on the lifeguard stand, checking chemical levels, doing lifeguard orientations, or other things. Being a supervisor is a full-time job, although it can be seasonal, making it a good option for college students as well as graduates. If you are interested in a supervisor position for 2016, now is the time to let your local staffer know.

Whether you’re looking for part-time, full-time, seasonal, or flexible work, there are a variety of opportunities waiting for you at your local pool. To find out what’s out there in your community, visit American Pool’s Guard for Life to learn how to train and apply.

The post What Kind of Pool Job is Right for You? appeared first on Guard For Life.

As summer winds down and your thoughts drift from the pool to school and other responsibilities, you’re likely not thinking about next summer. But now is actually a great time to make your game plan for the summer ahead, while you’re still in work mode and other commitments haven’t taken over. Getting all of your ducks in a row now makes it so much easier and less stressful throughout the year — instead of scrambling next May to figure out where you can lifeguard, you can relax, knowing you’ve got a spot waiting for you.

If you’re already a lifeguard, the first step is to check to see when your current certifications are going to expire. You may need to take a new CPR course or re-certify as a lifeguard if it’s been two years since your last training. If next summer is when you want to move up the ranks or work at a different type of pool, you may need to complete additional training, like the pool operator course. By doing your research now, you can avoid the hassle of last-minute training or delaying your start date next summer because you have to complete training you didn’t realize you needed.

It’s also valuable to stay in touch with your pool manager. If you touch base with your employers throughout the year, you can make sure you’re at the front of their mind when it’s time to staff up next summer. Your local American Pool office will also be holding hiring events and other get-togethers, so you’ll be the first to know about which pools are hiring and any new incentive programs running throughout the year.

If you haven’t been a lifeguard before but you know you want to lifeguard next summer, now’s a great time to start planning. Instead of rushing to get everything done, you can meet recruiters at your local office. They’ll interview you and get you all set up to receive your training, which you can schedule at your convenience. Plus, you’ll have ample time to convince your friends to lifeguard with you, so you can all have a great summer together while earning a paycheck and gaining some great experience.

How can you get started? Take a look at our blog to learn more about the ins and outs of being a lifeguard, and then head to American Pool’s Guard for Life website to apply for a job. With that done, you can enjoy the school year, secure in the knowledge that you’re set up for a fun, rewarding, and resume-building job. That’s a feeling that can’t be beat!

The post Plan Now for a Lifeguard Job Next Summer appeared first on Guard For Life.

Just because your outdoor pool has closed for the summer season doesn’t mean you don’t have job opportunities until the spring. Now is the time to put this summer’s worth of hard work and experience to use at an indoor pool instead. You won’t be able to maintain that sweet tan you picked up over the summer, but don’t let that deter you. Lifeguarding at an indoor pool is a great way to work over the winter while applying the skills you built over the summer.

Where to look
There’s a good chance that your local athletic clubs have both outdoor and indoor pools, so if you’re working at one of these clubs, you may be able to make an easy transition. Your local high school, community colleges, universities, and community centers may also have indoor pools looking for guards.

Familiar skills
At the end of the day, it’s still a pool. You’ll need to use your proper scanning practices and show up to work ready to be attentive and focused. You’ll also need to maintain proper chemical balances and ensure the pool deck is safe, so you’ll be drawing on the same skills you learned as an outdoor lifeguard.

Different challenges
Lifeguarding indoors does present its own challenges. Outdoors, the sun usually aids in keeping the deck dry; inside, you’ll need to work harder to make sure the deck isn’t slippery and hazardous. It’s more important than ever to warn kids against running when around the pool. Of course, you won’t be spending quite as much of your day watching kids play; you’ll need to devote more energy to setting up the pool for swimming lessons or swim team practice, or watching adults swim laps. With different client needs, you may need to adapt your customer service and communication skills.

Same benefits
Working as a lifeguard at an indoor pool this season offers the same perks as lifeguarding at your outdoor pool—flexible hours, part- or full-time work, and opportunities to get strengthen different skills, such as teaching swimming lessons. So if you need to continue working during the school year, picking up some shifts at an indoor pool can be a great way to earn money while maintaining and building your skill set.

Ready to get started? Using your same American Pool connections, we can help place you at an indoor pool hiring for the winter season. Staying in contact with your local American Pool office will also help recruiters keep you at the front of their minds when next summer’s opportunities come around. To find jobs near you or to find out more about how to become a lifeguard, visit American Pool’s Guard for Life.

The post This Fall and Winter, Take Your Lifeguard Skills to an Indoor Pool appeared first on Guard For Life.

This past Saturday, American Pool took part in the 2015 Dog Swim at The Greens at Schumaker Pond in Salisbury, MD.

After a wonderful summer, Schumaker Pond reached out to us to help with the event. The Dog Swim was organized as one last summer celebration before the end of the season. With the help of American Pool’s staff, our Guard For Life lifeguard Alex Putkowski (see interview her below), the community’s most prominent members and their owner’s were invited to enjoy a cool and relaxing day poolside.

Follow us on Facebook to photos from the 2015 Dog Swim.

The staff kept the party-goers entertained with a fun-filled day. Popular activities included chase the tail, dress-up and once in the pool, capture the tennis ball. By the end of the event, each pup left with tongues flabbing, tails wagging, and goodie bags full of sweet treats and toys for the walk home.

Lifeguard Spotlight with Alex P.

After the Dog Swim we took the time to catch up with American Pool Resort lifeguard Alexandra Putkowski. Alex did a great job to make the event fun and safe for all dogs and people involved. We had to know more about her.

Guard For Life lifeguard Alex

Profile

Years of Experience: 3 yrs and counting
Attending : Salisbury University
Year: Freshman

Q&A

Why lifeguarding?
I became a lifeguard because as a child my parents took me to the pool every summer night after they got off work so it was always a fun place to be. I didn’t want to have a boring job and being someone little kids look up to (literally and figuratively) seemed pretty good.

Why Guard for Life?
[Guard For Life] employed the guards at my community pool and that’s where I originally wanted to guard when I first started.

Tell us your most memorable experience as a guard.
My most memorable experience as a guard was at Shipley’s Choice Swim and Tennis Club during 4th of July. It was so crowded… I had never seen that many people at a pool before. Luckily, with my training, I was able to handle the pressure and make sure everyone had a fun and safe swim!

What would you tell a rookie lifeguard?
…the benefits of working more hours or picking up shifts. It may seem like a lot of work but it’s definitely rewarding.

Tell us a little about your dog?
I have a dog back home who is a terrier mix and weighs about 10 lbs. He is the perfect cuddle buddy and thinks he’s a human baby, not a puppy. Whenever I hold him I have to hold him as I would an infant, you know, on my hip. He knows what hugs and kisses mean!

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Yep, It’s officially October. It’s time for hayrides, apple cider, and all things pumpkin, but it’s also the time of the year when school kicks into high gear. We know how you feel about school: you can’t live with it, can’t live without. Yes, you’re a smart cookie. You know all too well how difficult it can be to balance work, school, and your social life. Frankly, it’s downright exhausting!

But don’t worry, if you need an extra little boost to set you on track as the next great time management wizard or organization savant, Guard For Life is here to help. Use your lifeguard skills to stay on top of studying, manage your time, and reduce stress!

Scan. Scan. Scan.

You’ve heard this mantra so many times you’re ready to scream, but it doesn’t only help you save lives on the job, it helps you keep your eye out for the things ahead. Take the time each week to scan for upcoming assignments, events, and activities you might want to participate in. Then take the time to add it to your calendar, either on your phone or in your agenda. Knowing what to expect by constantly looking for new things to pop up will help you avoid surprises and keep stress levels low.

Be ready!

So you have everything scheduled in your calendar, now what? Don’t let that overflowing agenda overwhelm you. Nothing is set in stone; be flexible, be ready. Now it’s your chance to organize your schedule to meet your needs. Pen in hard deadlines like school projects, and pencil in hangouts with friends (they’ll understand, they’ll probably need you to return the favor one day). Move your schedule around until you are happy. And if something comes up don’t stress. Use this general rule: If you have to squeeze it in, just say no.  

Communicate.

The secret to effective time management? Don’t keep your activities close to the belt. Utilize those communication skills you’ve gained during training! Tell the people close to you what you’ve planned. If your friends and family are aware of what’s on your plate, they’ll take extra precautions not to overwhelm you.

Take a break.

Just like being on lifeguard duty, break time is necessary to re-energize and re-focus. Don’t get caught up in all of your activities without taking time for yourself. Always remember your happiness and care are top priorities. Take this time to catch up on your favorite show, read a book, listen to music…etc. It’s up to you!

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Follow us on Pinterest for more tips on managing work, school, and your social life.

The post Take Your Lifeguard Skills to School appeared first on Guard For Life.

Whether it’s a summer outdoor position or working indoors during the colder months, being a lifeguard offers flexibility, plenty of time poolside, and valuable skills. You’ll combine your love of swimming with the benefits of altruism by keeping the pool safe for all.

 To get you prepared for a position as a lifeguard, here’s a rundown of what it takes to get a lifeguard certification:

The Swim Test

Before you start training make sure you’ve mastered the basics. The required swim test will check your swimming abilities. To complete this test you’ll need to:

Swim 300 yards (or about 6 laps)

Tread water (for 2 minutes, legs only)

Complete a timed event (see how to pass the brick test)

American Red Cross Lifeguard Training

Now that you have the basics, it’s time to enroll in certification training. Start with the Red Cross — check your state’s requirements to see what courses to take. Generally, lifeguard training takes 25 hours to complete with weekend, accelerated, and written online training options available. Over the course of  training, you’ll become comfortable with:

– Preventing, recognizing, and responding to emergencies in the water

– Providing care for breathing and cardiac injury

– Applying proper first-aid

– Administering  CPR and AED treatment

To demonstrate your understanding you’ll need to attend all classes, pass a written test (with a score of 80% or better), and successfully complete 3 skill scenarios. After you’ve passed  — with flying colors– you’ll receive an American Red Cross certificate. Valid for two years, you can show off your lifesaving abilities and apply to any lifeguard position with confidence.

Under 15?

It’s not too soon to think about a job as a lifeguard. Join a junior lifeguard program to prepare!

Get Started!

By signing up  for training through Guard For Life, we can guide you through the process and help you figure out what training you need based on your schedule, prior certifications, experience, where you live, and which pools are hiring. We can also help you find and apply for jobs. For more read “How to Become a Lifeguard: 5 Steps” or visit our “Become A Lifeguard” page.

The post What it takes to get a Lifeguard Certification appeared first on Guard For Life.

So, you want to be a lifeguard? That’s great! You’ll get to spend your summer by the pool, and gain those leadership skills everyone talks about. Can you say “best summer ever?” But before you can embark on this awesome journey, you first have to make sure you’re prepared for what’s ahead.

In many ways being a lifeguard is like playing a sport. Any student athlete — whether a rookie or old pro– knows practice doesn’t stop when the season ends. Year-round, athletes continue to train developing on the skill set required to be the best at their sport. This also goes for lifeguards. Lucky for you, Guard For Life has a few ways for you to stay in fighting shape when it comes to jumping back into the pool come summer.

Related: What it takes to get a Lifeguard Certification

Cross Training

Perfect for building strength and flexibility — cross training refers to combining exercises of various disciplines. This can involve any series of exercises. If you’re looking for an easy no hassle way to stay in shape throughout the fall and winter, cross training is key. CrossFit isn’t the only option here. So if you like swimming but don’t like running, give your favorite sport a try. Join the basketball team, soccer club, or make those Ultimate Frisbee games with friends a weekly thing. Mix it up!

Yoga

Maintaining proper breathing techniques while swimming is vital to passing the swim test in order to become a certified lifeguard. Avoid feeling winded. Learn to time your breathing with your swim stroke by practicing yoga. Yoga will help you adjust to the irregular pattern, making the 300 yard swim a breeze. Take a look at some of our favorite yoga positions and techniques:

– Breathing For Swimmers – Yoga Journal

– Yoga For Swimmers – Speedo Australia

– Good Morning Yoga Sequence – MindBodyGreen

Become an Indoor Lifeguard

The best way to stay in shape during the off-season is to put your lifeguard skills to work during the off-season. Nothing beats on-the-job training. Lifeguarding this fall and winter will not only give you extra cash in time for the holidays, but make you a better lifeguard.  If the weather doesn’t permit outdoor lifeguarding in your area, look for a local  indoor position.

Whether you’re a returning lifeguard or interested in getting your first time certification, putting in work during the off-season will help you keep your cool during recruitment.

— Follow our “Keep Moving!”  board on Pinterest for more fitness tips. —

The post Staying in Shape During the Off-Season appeared first on Guard For Life.

It’s that time of the year again. Time to secure your spot as a 2016 Guard For Life lifeguard. This week add another thing to be thankful for to your list. Join us for our lifeguard open houses on Tuesday, November 24th and Wednesday, November 25th to get a head start on your summer plans.

To find and register for a hiring event near you, click on the links below:

Tuesday, November 24th, 2015

Maryland –  2:00 PM – 6:00 PM, 9305 Gerwig Lane, Suite E Columbia, MD 21046

 visit page/register

Virginia- 2:00 PM- 6:00 PM, 6596 Fleet Drive Alexandria, VA 22310

visit page/register

Wednesday, November 25th, 2015

Georgia – 2:00 PM- 5:00 PM, 4040 Nine McFarland Dr, Suite 1100 Alpharetta, GA 30004

visit page/register

Long Island- 2:00 PM- 5:00 PM, 275 Marcus Blvd., Suite N Hauppauge, NY 11788

visit page/register

Maryland- 10:00 AM-12:00 PM, 9305 Gerwig Lane, Suite E Columbia, MD 21046

visit page/register

New Jersey- 2:00 PM-5:00 PM, 85 Campus Drive Edison, NJ 08837

visit page/register

New York- 2:00 PM- 5:00 PM, 202 Airport Executive Park Nanuet, NY 10954

visit page/register

North Carolina- 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM, 8724 Glenwood Avenue, Suite D Raleigh, North Carolina 27617

visit page/register

PA/Philly- 2:00 PM- 5:00 PM, 3580 Progress Drive, Suite E Bensalem, PA 19020

visit page/register

Pittsburgh- 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM, 3261 Babcock Blvd Pittsburgh, PA 15237

visit page/register

South Jersey- 2:00 PM-4:30 PM, Starbucks – 550 Fellowship Road Mount Laurel, NJ 08054

visit page/register

Virginia- 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM, 6596 Fleet Drive Alexandria, VA 22310

visit page/register

— Check back every month for future open house dates, for Summer 2016! —

The post Lifeguard Open Houses This Week! appeared first on Guard For Life.

It’s that time of the year again. Time to secure your spot as a 2016 Guard For Life lifeguard. This week add another thing to be thankful for to your list. Join us for our lifeguard open houses on to get a head start on your summer plans.

To find and register for a hiring event near you, click on the links below:

Saturday, December 12th, 2015

Georgia | 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM @ 4040 Nine McFarland Dr, Suite 1100 Alpharetta, GA 30004

Register

Monday, December 21st, 2015

Georgia | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 4040 Nine McFarland Dr, Suite 1100 Alpharetta, GA 30004

Register

Long Island | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 275 Marcus Blvd., Suite N Hauppauge, NY 11788

Register

Maryland | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 9305 Gerwig Lane, Suite E Columbia, MD 21046

Register

New Jersey | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 85 Campus Drive Edison, NJ 08837

Register

New York | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 202 Airport Executive Park Nanuet, NY 10954

Register

North Carolina | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 8724 Glenwood Avenue, Suite D Raleigh, NC 27617

Register

PA/Philly | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 3580 Progress Drive, Suite E Bensalem, PA 19020

Register

Pittsburgh | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 3261 Babcock Blvd Pittsburgh, PA 15237

Register

South Jersey | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ Starbucks – 282 Dunns Mill Road Bordentown, NJ 08505

Register

Virginia | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 6596 Fleet Drive Alexandria, VA 22310

Register

Tuesday, December 22nd, 2015

New Jersey | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 85 Campus Drive Edison, NJ 08837

Register

Wednesday, December 22nd, 2015

Georgia | 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM @ 4040 Nine McFarland Dr, Suite 1100 Alpharetta, GA 30004

Register

The post December Lifeguard Open Houses appeared first on Guard For Life.

Whether you’re taking a break from work, school, or the chaos of life in general. You’ve spent the better part of a month, (longer for some of us) for it to finally get here. Winter break. That glorious time at the end of the year when you have a little time to yourself to recharge and relax. It could only be better if we had more time. (Why can’t we just have more time?!)

Guard For Life wants you to make the most of winter break. Embrace it! No, we don’t mean starting an exclusive relationship with Netflix and your couch. Use this time to truly refresh. So when it’s time to unpause you won’t feel like time slipped by.

Reconnect

Chances are you haven’t seen your extended family and hometown friends in awhile. Going home for break is the perfect opportunity for you to reconnect with friends outside of your typical friend group. Whether it’s catching up over text, skyping, or inviting them over to hang out, reach out to people you haven’t seen in while. You’ll be surprised how much has changed. And you never know what fun opportunities might come from it.

Read A Book

Is Netflix your thing? We have the perfect thing for you… books. The original Netflix, a good book is just as engaging as whatever show you’re currently into. Supernatural fan? Read American Gods by Neil Gaiman (catch up before the show premieres) Is Once Upon a Time your thing? Read The Lunar Chronicles series. Can’t get enough of Brooklyn Nine-Nine? Read Quicksand by Steve Toltz.   

Related: 24 Books You Should Read, Based On Your Favorite TV Shows | Buzzfeed

Get a Seasonal Position

Finding a job over winter break, makes having fun over winter break that much easier. And for those of you perfectly content with not working during your down time. Think about securing a job for the spring semester, spring break, or the summer. It’s never too early to get ahead. You’ll thank yourself later while your friends are franticly trying to land a job later on along with everyone else.

Related: Take Your Lifeguard Skills to an Indoor Pool | Guard For Life

Related: Plan Now for a Lifeguard Job Next Summer | Guard For Life

Volunteer

One of the best ways to remove stress is to do good things for other people. During the holiday season, there are plenty of volunteer and donation opportunities to choose from. You could go the traditional route and volunteer at a soup kitchen or even try  swimming for MS.  The possibilities are endless. Here are a few of our favorite sites for finding volunteer opportunities:

1. Volunteer Match – volunteermatch.org
2. The American Red Cross – redcross.org
3. All For Good – allforgood.org

Winter break is more than laying on the couch all day. It’s about embracing the short time that you do have, to re-energize and recharge. Show us how you will spend you break with the hastag, #gflbreak on Instagram and Twitter.

The post Make The Most Of Winter Break appeared first on Guard For Life.

Start the New year off right by securing your spot as a 2016 Guard For Life lifeguard. You and your friends are welcome to join us for fun, food, prizes, and more at our January Lifeguard Open Houses to get a head start on your summer job plans.

To find and register for a hiring event near you, click on the links below:

Saturday, January 16th, 2016

Georgia | 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM @ 4040 Nine McFarland Dr, Suite 1100 Alpharetta, GA 30004

Register

Long Island | 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM @ 275 Marcus Blvd., Suite N Hauppauge, NY 11788

Register

Maryland | 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM @ 9305 Gerwig Lane, Suite E Columbia, MD 21046

Register

New Jersey | 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM @ 85 Campus Drive Edison, NJ 08837

Register

New York | 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM @ 202 Airport Executive Park Nanuet, NY 10954

Register

North Carolina | 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM @ 8724 Glenwood Avenue, Suite D Raleigh, NC 27617

Register

PA/Philly | 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM @ 3580 Progress Drive, Suite E Bensalem, PA 19020

Register

Pittsburgh | 3:00 PM- 6:00 PM @ 3261 Babcock Blvd Pittsburgh, PA 15237

Register

South Jersey | 11:00 AM- 3:00 PM @ Starbucks – 405 South Pitney Road Absecon, NJ 08205

Register

Virginia | 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM @ 6596 Fleet Drive Alexandria, VA 22310

Register

The post January Lifeguard Open Houses appeared first on Guard For Life.