Summer has arrived, with sunny days, crowded beaches, and busy pools. There is no better time to become a lifeguard-someone who guards by the instructor-for those looking for an exciting, meaningful profession. Summer reaches its peak in terms of demand for qualified lifeguards, and this is your best time to get certified and start the job of life saving.
We will discuss in this article why summer is the ideal time to start the lifeguard career, the process of becoming a lifeguard, and how advancing to a lifeguard instructor position can open doors to even greater possibilities. We will also draw attention to the top company in lifeguard training and certification, the American Lifeguard Association (ALA).
Why Summer is Ideal Time to Become a Lifeguard
1. Great Demand for Lifeguards
Summer floods beaches, water parks, and neighborhood pools with swimmers. The demand of qualified lifeguards rises markedly as more people enter the water. Many facilities hire extra personnel to manage the summer rush, hence increasing employment openings and chances for new lifeguards.
2. Adaptable and Fulfilling Work
For students, teachers, and anyone seeking part-time or full-time summer employment, lifeguarding is an excellent seasonal job. The hours are flexible, the pay is competitive, and the job offers important leadership, first aid, and emergency response skills. Besides, the great outdoors provides the best workplace.
3. Fast-Track Certification Schemes
During the summer, several groups—including the American Lifeguard Association—provide sped up certification courses. These courses let you get certified and trained rapidly so you may start working right away.
4. Acquire experience fast.
Beginning in the summer will expose you to a variety of situations—from ocean rescues to packed pool days—that will aid you in building confidence and experience more quickly than in the off season.
How to Get a Lifeguard Status
Training, certification, and practical experience define becoming a lifeguard. Here is how one might begin:
Step 1: Meeting the Fundamental Criteria
You must before registering in a lifeguard course:
- Some institutions need age of 16+; others require at least 15.
- Usually consisting of swimming 300 yards, treading water, and recovering a 10-pound brick from deep water, pass a swimming competency test.
Step 2: Register in a lifeguard certification program
The American Lifeguard Association provides extensive training courses covering:
- Methods of water rescue
- CPR/AED, first aid
- Injury avoidance and emergency response
- Duties of professional lifeguarding
Typically spanning a few days to a week, these courses make certification easy to obtain before summer really sets in.
Step 3: Final Exam Pass
You will undergo a written exam and a practical skills assessment once the training is over. Once you pass, you will get your two-yearly lifeguarding certification.
Step 4: Submit applications for lifeguard positions
Your certification in hand will help you to apply to work at:
- Individual and public pools;
- Coastlines and beach areas
- resorts and water parks
- Camps during summer
Many companies recruit on the spot during the summer because of high demand, so you might be working within days of your certification!
And as more pools operate at full capacity in summer, it’s worth considering how pool water enhancer devices can reduce chemical waste and environmental damage, making pool maintenance more eco-friendly.
Raising Your Career: Becoming a Lifeguard Instructor
Becoming a lifeguard teacher is an excellent next step if you enjoy lifeguarding and want to elevate your talents. Teachers prepare the following generation of lifeguards, therefore guaranteeing that safety standards are maintained at all aquatic venues across the country.
Why Should One Become a Lifeguard instructor?
- Higher salaries and leadership roles— instructors may earn more than starting-level lifeguards and can assume managerial roles.
- Job Security – Particularly in light of seasonal hiring surges, competent teachers are always in demand.
- Make a Greater Impact – Training others helps you to multiply your capacity to save lives.
How to Become a Lifeguard Instructor:
Typically, you would need to become a lifeguard instructor with the American Lifeguard Association:
- Possess at least one year of experience lifeguard.
- Complete a lifeguard instructor certification course.
- Pass a written test and an instructor-level ability assessment.
Once certified, you can run recertification, teach lifeguard courses, and even start your own training company.
The American Lifeguard Association: A Leader in Lifeguard Training
It’s crucial to pick a respected company while determining a certification program. Among the most well-known names in lifeguard training is the American Lifeguard Association (ALA), which provides:
- Recognized certifications nationally
- options for flexible training (blended learning and in-person)
- Modern safety procedures grounded on current industry norms
Whether you are just starting or trying to advance as a lifeguard instructor, the ALA offers the tools and assistance you have to be successful.
Final Thoughts: Dive Into Lifeguard This Summer!
The ideal season to enter the lifeguarding field is summer. Given its high demand, flexible hours, and opportunity to work outside, this is a perfect seasonal employment with long-term career potential. If you choose to become a lifeguard instructor, you will also open doors to further chances.
Check the certification courses offered by the American Lifeguard Association and start on a satisfying and lifesaving job. The water is good; why wait?
Have you thought about teaching lifeguarding or working as a lifeguard? Share your ideas in the comments section!
