Lifeguard

You would keep people safe at swimming pools, beaches, rivers and lakes. You’d take charge in emergencies and rescue people from drowning.

You’d observe and supervise swimming areas to prevent accidents. You would make sure swimmers are aware of dangerous situations and avoid hazards.

You’d need to be able to concentrate for long periods and act calmly and decisively in emergencies. People in an accident might be scared or panicking so you’d calm them down and communicate with them as clearly as possible.

As a pool lifeguard you would:

• Patrol the edge of the pool or watch the swimmers from a chair raised up on stilts at the poolside

• Advise swimmers about using the diving boards and slides

• Stop behaviour which could be dangerous

• Look out for swimmers who get into difficulties

• Give first aid

• Use life-saving techniques in emergencies

• Check water temperature, pH and chlorine levels

• Set up pool equipment

As a beach lifeguard you would:

• Be a point of contact for people on the beach

• Advise people where and when they can swim safely

• Supervise users of beaches and inland waterways

• Monitor sea conditions and set up appropriate safety flags

• Make sure people stay in safe areas

• Give basic first aid if necessary

• Use life-saving techniques in emergencies

Sometimes you would tell people to stop breaking the safety rules; you’d need to be tactful and polite but also firm.

• Swimming Teachers Association – qualifications in swimming teaching and lifesaving

• Royal Life Saving Society UK - qualifications in lifeguarding and water safety