Operation Rescue

Although guarding lives is the primary responsibility of lifeguards, it is often one of the least experienced aspects for guards to practice on the job. If you become accustomed to working in an aquatic environment where your only interaction with H20 is sipping it from your water bottle, it is imperative to keep your guarding skills fresh in your memory.

Considering the fact that a lifeguarding certification can be considered current from on average anywhere from one to three years, it is your personal and professional responsibility to know how to respond to any potential drowning situation while on duty. Be able to immediately identify the type of victim you have and how to initiate your facilities EAP (Emergency Action Plan) appropriately and correspondingly.

Remember to notify at least one other person, be it a fellow guard or by-stander, that you’re entering the water and may need assistance. In addition, don’t forget to clear the pool or let other guards know they need to watch your area—the last thing anyone needs is another victim.

Though all rescues are of a serious nature, some are undoubtedly more intense than others. Active and distressed swimmers are typically the least extreme, since the patron is conscious. Passive victims are more serious, as they are in the water unconscious and may even become submerged. Potential spinal victims can result in the most dire consequences and knowledge of how to properly backboard is a crucial skill. So make sure you are continually refreshing your guarding expertise and stay up-to-date on emergency response protocol.

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