A water-safety professional who supervises swimmers and performs rescues at pools, beaches, and waterparks.
What lifeguards do
Lifeguards watch swimming areas to prevent and respond to accidents, enforce facility rules, perform water rescues using rescue tubes and boards, administer CPR and first aid, and call EMS in serious emergencies. They also test water chemistry and maintain facilities.
Training path
Pool lifeguards earn American Red Cross or Ellis and Associates lifeguarding certifications. Ocean lifeguards add USLA open-water training. Most cert programs include skill testing, rescue drills, and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer.
Work setting
Common employers include city pool departments, YMCAs, country clubs, ocean rescue agencies, waterparks, and resorts. Many ocean and beach positions are seasonal, with summer crews of college students supplemented by year-round captains.
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Lifeguard starts with L and ends with D. Browse other professions along the same letter.
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