The Legalities of Lifeguarding

It may not be a commonly discussed aspect of the job, but it certainly is one of the most important. All lifeguards should be aware of the rights and responsibilities associated with guarding. As a paid and certified position, lifeguards are expected to deliver a certain level and standard of care to their patrons. Failure to do so can result in suits brought against the company you are working for or you even you yourself. The standard of care expected would fall under how any logical person would behave in the given situation.

Lifeguards have an added responsibility of performing medical assistance and can be sued if they fail to properly execute care, given that they are certified. Malfeasance is the term associated with misconduct causing harm by a person in an authoritative position (i.e. lifeguards). Failing to notice a distressed swimmer would fall under negligence, also punishable by the law.

According to Lifesaving Resources Inc. and based upon the review of several lifeguarding court cases, there are six common elements associated with aquatic injuries and drowning where guards are on duty. They are as follows: personnel, prevention strategies, distracting factors, recognition, response and emergency care, and legal implications.

A common misconception of lifeguards is that they are protected under “Good Samaritan Laws;” however, in most states this is not the case. Because the purpose of a guard is to protect swimmers, he or she can be held liable if there is a lack of care (similar to how doctors and firefighters can be prosecuted). So always make sure your certifications are up-to-date and don’t get caught snoozing in the chair!

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Welcome

Welcome to my blog! This is a site dedicated to sharing all aspects of a lifeguard’s life. Lifeguarding can definitely be a lifestyle all its own. It is more than merely a job which pays the bills (well, maybe at least one bill). From the Red Cross certified to the YMCA, from those who get their tan on while guarding to those who guard indoors while snow falls outside, lifeguards are undoubtedly more than the stereotypical, Baywatch images of babes in red suits jogging in slow motion down the beach line.

Lifeguards must be medically-minded individuals, fully prepared to utilize their first aid skills to those darn kids, who refuse to listen to our whistle blows and shouts not to run and end up falling and skinning their knees. Or how about knowing the proper way to give CPR to the elderly gentleman, who spent too much time in the hot tub? Few jobs outside of the hospital environment require the medical certification guarding does. A vigilant attention span is also essential, as prevention is everything in maintaining a safe environment for swimmers.

In the event of an unfortunate accident, correct technique in making water saves can literally become the difference between life and death. As first responders during emergencies, lifeguards need to know the legal implications involved. But lifeguarding can certainly be fun—guards enjoy a unique sense of authority over the aquatic environment, often resulting in strong bonds to their fellow guards. And don’t forget about the fact that bathing suits and flip flops are appropriate work attire. This blog will most certainly address all components of this job…happy guarding!

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