How To Become a Lifeguard

Be a people person. Lifeguarding is a pretty hands-on job, and requires a lot of interaction with the public. It helps if you’re good with people and great with kids.

See what’s available in your area. Contact your local facilities department to inquire about jobs at public pools, and your local parks department for jobs at beaches. Each facility has its own water-safety requirements, so be sure to investigate what credentials you’ll need.

Get the proper certification. Each certification course has its own special age requirements, training procedures, and course fees. And it’s generally harder to patrol the beach than police the pool.

Choose the positions you want to apply for based on pay, location, convenience, size of facility, and how many guards they’re looking for. Then thoroughly complete and submit your applications in a timely manner.

Ace the job interview by being friendly, energetic, and professional. You want to appear responsible and competent.

Once you land your dream job, you’ll need to stay in shape. Hit the gym, do your laps, and stick with a healthy diet.

Avoid skin damage by using a good sunscreen and shielding yourself from dangerous doses of UV rays by covering up with a hat, protective clothing, and a towel, and staying in the shade.

Certifications expire after set periods of time, so make sure you keep up with renewal dates and exams. You may also want to further your career by pursuing higher certifications.