What does a lifeguard certification consist of?
Posted in Aquatic Articles, on September 20, 2019
If you're ever wondered "What does a lifeguard certification consist of?" or "How do I become a lifeguard", then you've come to the right place. At Lifeguarding Academy, we strive to make the process of becoming a lifeguard as easy as possible so that more people decide to learn to save lives and take the responsibility of keeping people safe at the pool. One way we make becoming a lifeguard easier, is by making the process more transparent and clear for the public.
The National lifeguard course is the certification that all lifeguards hold nationwide. This course is a 40-hour long training that consists of physical training as well as learning the theory behind lifeguarding. See below for what is included in the Lifesaving Society's National Lifeguard course.
Physical Items
The purpose of the physical items in the National Lifeguard program are to ensure the lifeguard's physical fitness and ability to rescue victims during the time of emergency. All National Lifeguard candidates are encouraged to train and ensure that they're able to meet these physical requirements prior their course and even after successful completion of it.
1. Endurace Challenge
- Distance: 400m
- All strokes are allowed
- Distance must be completed in or under 10 minutes.
2. Sprint Challenge
- Distance: 50m
- Distance must be completed in or under 60 seconds
- Breast Stroke or Front Crawl is allowed
- In-water start
3. Object recovery
- Distance: 20m
- Approach: 15m
- Carry: 5m
- Must be completed in or under 40 seconds
- Candidates head must stay out of the water during the carry
- Head-up or head-down approach are acceptable
4. Under-Water Swim
- Distance: 15m
- Depth of 1.5 meters must be maintained throughout the item
5. Rescue drill
Management Items
These items are designed to prepare you to respond to specific emergencies.
1. Management of Distressed or Drowning Victim
2. Spinal Injury Management and Boarding
3. Management of Submerged Victim
Lifeguard Theory & Practice
1. Roles & Responsibilities of the Lifeguard
2. Chemicals Used in Pools
3. Lifeguard & the Law
4. Inservices & On-going Training
5. Pool Facility Analysis
6. Lifeguard Communication
7. Scanning & Supervision
8. Positioning & Rotation
9. Intervention
Specialized techniques
The below items are commonly taught to the National Lifeguard candidates. Your instructor may teach you additional examinable techniques during the course.
1. Corner Spinals
2. Seizures
3. Double clutch
4. Missing Persons Procedure
Exam:
Your National Lifeguard Exam will consist of lifeguarding situations, also known as "Sits". Candidates will be faced with a number of situations in which they will be able to demonstrate their ability and skills. See below for the criteria to pass your National Lifeguard exam.
1. Effective lifeguard positioning
2. Effective observation skills & scanning techniques
3. Timely recognition & appropriate response
4. Appropriate execution of procedures
5. Effective execution of roles in the management of the situations
6. Selection and demonstration of effective rescue techniques
7. Appropriate first aid treatment if required
8. Accurate communication with EMS at earliest possible moment
9. Continued safety supervision of other patrons throughout
10. Concern for good public relations
11. Appropriate and effective direction of bystanders where applicable
12. Accurate reporting and appropriate follow-up
Hopefully knowing what will be expected in the National Lifeguard course helps you make a more informed decision about becoming a lifeguard. If you would like to learn more about the Lifesaving Society's National Lifeguard courses offered at the Lifeguarding Academy, visit our website and explore your options!
