Summer is fast approaching, recruitment is taking place all over the country for certified lifeguards. This is because beaches, water theme parks, and community pools are all gearing up for another busy season during which the demand for certified lifeguards is at its peak. Named summer opportunities are plenty for either the profession-ready lifeguard looking to recertify or a fresh recruit desirous of joining the ranks.
In this article, we will discuss the present trend for lifeguard recruitment, the importance of keeping certifications up to date, and organizations like the American Lifeguard Association (ALA) that are pivotal in training and recertifying lifeguards throughout the country.
The Increasing Demand for Lifeguards
Meanwhile, recent evidence cites a National shortage of qualified lifeguards, thus leaving many of the aquatic facilities. Some of the reasons for the shortage are:
- Seasonal Nature of the Job – Most lifeguards are seasonal, thus making for a workforce with high turnover.
- Post-COVID-19 Demands on Water Safety – The pandemic has made many people engage in pools and beaches, bolstering the need for capacity.
- Strict Certification Requirements – Some candidates do not complete training, which diminishes the availability of a wider pool of prospective candidates.
Why is it Important to Recertify as a Lifeguard
About all certified lifeguards redo but the very important thing in order not to lapse in employment next is recertification. Most certifications become void before two years, necessitating even regular lifeguards to renew their documentation from time to time.
Reasons give rise to such knowledge stability:
- Safety Standards Compliance – Facilities require recent certifications as conditions of legality and insurance.
- Updated Training Protocols – Areas of CPR, first aid, and rescue techniques constantly change, and recertification helps ensure lifeguards are regularly informed on current best practices.
- Career Advancement – Most senior jobs in the field require current certification, making recertification a necessity for promotion.
- Increased Job Opportunities – Certification allows lifeguards to work for multiple entities, such as resorts, water parks, and beaches.
The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) offers widely recognized national programs that ensure easy reliability of recertifying lifeguards via traditional or blended learning options.
A Guide to Lifeguard Recertification:
If your certification is just about to expire, you need to do a few things:
1. Find Out the Expiration Date for Your Certification
Most lifeguard certifications expire after two years. Mark your calendar for the date to renew it just before the completion of this period.
2. Register for the Recertification Course
Shorter than the initial training program, the lifeguard recertification courses run one to two days. These include the following content areas:
- CPR/AED refresher;
- First-aid review;
- New rescue techniques;
- Skills specific to either waterfront or pool (depending on your environment).
The American Lifeguard Association has its programs tailored towards the recertification of working professionals.
3. Passing of the Required Examinations
The recertification consists of a combination of written and practical examinations to ascertain competency. The participant should be ready to demonstrate:
- Appropriate response to rescue situations;
- Use of AED and first aid techniques;
- Clear communications and teamwork.
4. Forward the Documentation to Your Employer
After finishing, remember to submit your new certification to your current employer, or you may also keep it for reference in future job applications.
Job Opportunities for Certified Lifeguards
Lifeguards with current certifications can find work in various job environments:
Pools Both Private and Public
Local governments and private clubs hire seasonal and year-round lifeguards. Such positions often come with extra perks, such as free access to the pool.
Beaches and Waterfronts
Ocean lifeguard work is more strenuous, but better paying and challenging in its own right. Organizations such as the U.S. Lifesaving Association usually post calls for coastal job applications.
Water Parks and Resorts
Theme parks and big resorts like Disney, Universal Studios, and Six Flags hire hundreds of lifeguards every summer. Most of the time, these jobs include benefits for the employees.
Summer Camps
Many camps hire lifeguards for swimming activities, which is gratifying for those who love working with kids.
Read more: Why Technical SEO, Hosting, and Maintenance Are Key to Long-Term Growth
Understanding How America Lifeguard Association Helps All Lifeguards
American Lifeguard Association is one of the top organizations providing lifeguard training and recertification programs. Their lessons have been organized to be flexible to the student while meeting national standards.
On What Ground Do You Choose ALA for Recertification?
- Nationally Accepted Certification – Accepted by an Employer in the entire USA.
- Blended-learning Approaches – Combines online assignments and an in-person skills testing app.
- Well-Qualified Instructors – Courses marked by actual professionals’ experience in the field.
- Reasonable Pricing – Competitive rates equally with additional discounts for group certification.
Whether you renew or take training for the first time, ALA has all the resources for succeeding in this very important profession.
Final Word: A Rewarding Career Awaits
My summer job lifeguarding is going to be just that—it is a career that saves lives. As the tide turns in so far as a qualified staff shortage, there could never be a better time to get certified hire or recertify oneself through lifeguard recertification.
If the training is from the best sources, like the American Lifeguard Association, your skills will be, sharpened and employment opportunities will be abundant.
So, here’s how to get started in this field: check out local job boards, sign up for a recertification course, and get ready for a summer of meaningful work. The water’s fine—will you answer the call?
