Lifeguard certification - seeing underwater?

Question

I'm contemplating going for a Red Cross lifeguard training course but I have a few questions. My main question is about the part of the testing that's in the water. I have poor vision and wear contacts so I can't open my eyes under water unless the contacts are out and then I can hardly see a thing.

How big of a problem would this be? I think it would have the biggest impact on the dive to get a brick at the bottom of the pool but I don't really know. Thank in advance.

Answer 1

ask if you can use goggles because you can't see underwater very well than just keep them with u all the time when you lifeguard.

Answer 2

They probably could get you some special goggles.

Answer 3

Well for getting the brick i have used goggles and then i have done it with out them

but most of the time when we do like fully submerged rescues from the bottom i keep my eyes closed and feel for a shoulder ...haven't messed up really bad yet so i think you'll be ok

i dont know about red cross but for Ellis and Associates you have to pass a vision test...if thats going to be a problem

Answer 4

When I took the lifeguarding class we were not allowed to use goggles so I just opened my eyes underwater to see the brick...

if you cannot do this position yourself on top of the brick and go straight down with your eyes closed and feel for the brick

The only other part you might have problems with is when you have to do your swim...but you should be able to use goggles for that