Lifeguarding is a very important job. It requires a different set of skills from any other profession. These skills and this knowledge are what guards you need while working as a lifeguard in an aquatic environment where people’s lives depend on your ability to perform rescue operations effectively.
Getting certified as a lifeguard can be one of the most significant achievements in your life, but it does not end there (American Lifeguard Association). Recertifying oneself regularly is equally crucial too because situations change with time so should our abilities to handle them also adapt accordingly. This article by American Lifeguards USA will discuss how often you should recertify yourself if you want to become or remain employed as a lifeguard in the United States of America.
Why do we need Lifeguard Recertification Renewal?
There are several reasons why people should go for lifeguard recertification:
Skills Reinforcement: Skills like CPR, first aid, and water rescue techniques dull over time if not used frequently enough; thus refresher courses help polish these abilities hence ensuring that guards stay competent and confident in their work.
Evolving Training Standards: Over years best practices keep changing including training standards themselves which means even though someone might have been trained before using old methods may no longer be applicable therefore putting others’ lives at risk during emergencies without proper knowledge on what has changed since then (recertification).
Statutory Obligation & Professionalism: According to employment laws many employers require employees who work under hazardous conditions such as those encountered by pool attendants during duties hours must always possess valid licenses Failure to adhere these regulations may lead into termination besides limiting career progressions Opportunities within various sectors which demand high level qualifications; this shows why legal measures exist mandating all individuals occupying such positions abide by rules regulating safe guarding life at swimming pools among other places where they serve.
How often should I renew my certification
The frequency of re-certifications depends on different factors like organization, type of license one has obtained and the body regulating their operations among others. On average most certifications last for two years before they expire thus necessitating that an individual undergoes another renewal exercise but this may vary depending with:
American Lifeguards USA: As per our recommendation through American Lifeguards USA we advise swimmers to renew their licenses after every 24 months so as not only be up-to-date but also ensure continuous improvement in skills through fresh trainings which aligns well industry standards besides keeping pace with any changes made within various training protocols over time.
CPR & First Aid Training: It should be understood by all trainees who enroll into lifeguard courses that apart from being certified as a lifeguard one must also obtain separate certifications for both Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) techniques along with Basic Life Support (BLS) First Aid skills since these two areas are usually covered under different curriculums hence having varying periods when they need renewal.
Tips for Preparing for Recertification
Regular Practice: Lifeguards should continuously train themselves even when they are not on duty. This involves rehearsing CPR, reviewing rescue techniques, and keeping physically fit. By so doing, they will always be ready for recertification and perform well during emergencies.
Stay Up To Date: Lifeguards need to know about any changes in lifeguard training standards as well as protocols. You can achieve this by attending workshops, reading publications related to the industry, or engaging in online forums. Being conversant with what is happening around helps you learn new methods or equipment that might be introduced.
Join Relevant Associations: Joining American Lifeguard USA or any other professional organization opens doors to various resources such as training materials, recertification courses among others. The sense of belonging to a community also motivates individuals to remain active within their careers.
Plan Early: It is advisable for lifeguards to arrange their re-certifications some time before their current ones expire. This allows them sufficient period to undertake all mandatory classes and assessments without feeling rushed due to approaching deadlines. Additionally, one should never leave gaps in certification which might affect employability.
Consequences Of Not Renewing Your Certification
There are several negative outcomes that may arise from failure to renew your lifeguard certification:
Loss Of Job: Most employers demand staff members possess valid certificates throughout their employment tenure with them hence if yours lapses then it means being jobless until you re-sit for exams again.
Reduced Skill Level: Without frequent practice sessions coupled up with recertification events; skills begin fading away over time among guards leading towards inability when it comes into play during emergencies thereby putting lives at risk more than ever before.
Legal Actions Taken Against You And Employer Involved In An Accident Whereby Either Or Both Parties Did Not Have Current Certification
In conclusion
Recertifying oneself as a lifeguard serves as a crucial part in ensuring that one has the necessary skills and knowledge required to work effectively as a lifeguard. At American Lifeguard USA we highly recommend re-certification after every two years because emergencies are unpredictable so it is better to be prepared all the time. Practice makes perfect, staying informed as well as planning ahead will help you keep your certification valid without any hitches which might jeopardize your career opportunities within aquatic environments safety.
