What are some tips for being a good lifeguard?

Question

I just got my ARC lifeguard license and my first job is tomorrow!

What are some tips? I'm lifeguarding at my school since there is going to be a small faculty family swim. :]

I need tips on how to watch for dangerous activity and what to say when someone does something dangerous, etc. And how to look.

Answer 1

Well I became a lifeguard this year and i was so nervous the first day. You have to be strict the first day or time someone breaks a rule. you have to use your discretion. I hate enforcing rules but it has to be done. Also, people will take you seriously if you use your whistle, and have your gear set up the way it is supposed to be, like having your rescue tube on your lap. Sit up straight, don't focus on one particular area for a long time, just keep glancing back and forth if the pool you are at is big enough. That will help you be alert. If you are unsure if someone is in trouble, Stand up, walk over to the person and ask if they are ok. If not you know what to do. I work at a pool by myself for 9 hours a day, with lots of kids and Senior citizens, witch makes it a risky pool, but only once out of the whole summer someone was drowning. Chances are nothing bad will happen and you will enjoy your experience. Good luck!

Answer 2

Most of these people said it pretty well. Just remember, if someone gets upset with you, they're not angry with YOU personally, they're upset with the uniform.  

Answer 3

I've found it helpful to stay awake.

Answer 4

you should exercise daily, eat a a balance diet, get enough sleep and rest, and most of all pray to the lord when you are saving people

Answer 5

Being a lifeguard is easy if you remember your training and stay on your toes. Here are my personal tips:

- Don't get distracted. If someone talks to you remember to wwatch the pool while you answer their questions. This is one time where not looking someone in the face while talking to them is acceptable.

- Stick to your guns. Be consistent with your punishments and whistle blowing. If you blow a runner, blow the next runner. Three strikes and you're out. Don't let anyone argue with you, YOU are in charge of their safety! If they argue, just politely explain the danger of the situation and stick with your gut!

- Stay awake (obvious but don't me started on what I have seen lol)

- Be kind and polite to the patrons and always explain yourself clearly. Try not to yell if you can avoid it. Patrons will react more positively to a face-to-face quiet request for them to stop doing something than to a shout or public humiliation (exception: running. I whistle every single runner every time lol).

- Be smiley and approachable. People like nice lfieguards and are more likely to listen to you if you present a happy face and say hello to them when they come in, etc.

- Relax. Your job is a serious one and you need ot be alert but not uptight. You'll do fine!!!

Good luck

Answer 6

mankini... or get PAZZAAAA

Answer 7

keep yoru ears open, thats for sure . also keep your eyes on sharp watch, try observing the people who enter the pool . sometimes you can tell whos a trouble maker, so keep an eye on them to make sure they dotn do anything dangerous . remeber that danger can always happen at any time, so always keep an eye out . also keep an eye our for kids, or families with lots of kids, good luck luck with tmrw !