How to become a lifeguard

So first of all, do you have what it takes to be a lifeguard? Don't worry - its not that daunting!

Generally, to be a good lifeguard you should be:

> Physically fit - you don't have to be a swimming champion, but you should be able to manage a few lengths without any difficulty.

> A team player - you'll often be working as part of a team of lifeguards. Its essential to be a good team player and be able to work with others

> A good communicator - you'll need excellent customer service skills to be a lifeguard. "Telling off" customers for breaking the pool rules can be harder than it seems! There may be cases where you have to ask people to leave the swimming pool, or deal with customer complaints. You'll need excellent communication skills

> Observant - goes without saying really!

Don't worry if you wear glasses / contact lenses. These shouldn't pose a problem as long as you can perform all the tasks in the lifeguard course without them. I wouldn't advise wearing contact lenses poolside, stick to glasses!

Generally, you'll need to undertake one of two courses in the UK to be a lifeguard.

> NPLQ: National Pool Lifeguard Qualification

or...

> NBLQ: National Beach Lifeguard Qualification

As the title's suggest, the NPLQ course allows you to be a pool lifeguard and the NBLQ allows you to be a beach lifeguard. Simples!

Here I'm going to concentrate on the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification as I spent most of my time as a pool lifeguard

The NPLQ is typically a 5 day course followed by an assessment day. The course is a mix of lifeguarding theory, first aid and practical rescue skills.

The course is made up of two units:

Unit 1: The Principles of Lifesaving and Swimming Pool Supervision

This Unit comprises of most of the theory / practical skills:

> The principles of pool lifeguarding

> Water rescue skills, including timed swim rescues, conscious and unconscious casualties

> CPR skills on adult, child and infant

> First Aid

Unit 2: The Application of Supervision and Rescue in a Swimming Pool

This shorter unit assesses your ability to apply the skills learnt in Unit 1 to a work environment. You'll learn about the basic management of a swimming pool, slide management, diving areas, cleaning and maintenance, health and safety etc.

The theory on the course is not hard, however it can be quite intense over a 5 day period. There is quite a lot of first aid information to learn, and its always beneficial if you've been on a first aid course beforehand.

After the course you'll have to undertake an assessment. This normally comprises of demonstrating your water rescue skills as part of a group, followed by demonstrating an understanding of the theory and first aid procedures (normally a mix of scenarios and questioning). Each examiner has their own different 'style' though so make sure you learn everything thoroughly!

When you pass, you'll be presented with a temporary certificate. This will be followed by a permanent certificate which is valid for two years

You can use this form to search for NPLQ courses near you

Most leisure centers / pools run NPLQ courses, so its worth asking at your local centre. There may even be a job at the end of it!