Lifeguards play an important role of keeping people safe at beaches, pools, swimming holes, and other bodies of water. However, when it comes to guarding lives… lifeguard safety is also part of the equation. To protect the people around you, you must first protect yourself. So, we’re here to help you do just that. Following, we will provide you with a few tactics to keep yourself safe, and in turn, the people around you.
Lifeguard Safety: Protecting Yourself
Use sun protection
Lifeguards have to stay out in the sun for long periods of time. However, this constant exposure can cause more than just a tan. Sunburn and skin cancer are some risks that lifeguards have to be aware of. Generally, good lifeguard safety means taking steps to be protected from the sun. For example, it’s a good idea to wear a good sunscreen of at least SPF 30 or higher. The sunscreen should be reapplied every few hours, especially if you’ve been in the water. Good hats and sunglasses also help offer added shade and protection from the sun.
Stay hydrated
Lifeguards have a pretty physical job. They must quickly reach people who may be struggling in the water and get them to safety. This can quickly wear a person out, which is why it’s an important part of lifeguard safety to remain energized. That’s why lifeguards should make sure to stay hydrated when on the job. Generally, it’s recommended to have at least 2-4 glasses of water for every hour out in the sun. It’s a good idea to bring extra water bottles in a cooler to keep the chilled throughout the hot day.
Injuries Resulting From Injuries
Lifeguards have to account for any number of things at one time, aside from lifeguard safety. From slippery pavement, to people who can’t swim, rip currents, or other unexpected circumstances. No matter where you are working, there are unique injuries that you might encounter as a result. In turn, when issues begin to happen, others might begin to panic— making it difficult for you to work properly, and avoid lifeguard injuries. Take, for example, someone drowning. When they are panicking and you go to help, they might unintentionally pull you down and put you at risk of a similar injury.
Injured lifeguards should seek out first aid ASAP. After all, their well being is just as important as those they are watching over. They can also take steps to help reduce this injury risk. This can involve keeping the pool area clean, and keeping panicking people calm when rescuing them. Lifeguards have a tough but necessary job. The importance of their jobs means they must make sure to keep themselves healthy when on job. Everyone swimming is safer when the lifeguards are safe as well. Therefore, lifeguard safety should be a concern both to the lifeguard and to everyday people.