Lifeguard - West Cabarrus

General Function:

Under the guidance of the Aquatic Director, the lifeguard’s primary responsibility, is the safety of all swimmers both in and out of the water.  This includes, but is not limited to, enforcing pool safety rules and being alert for hazardous conditions or emergencies.  This position is also responsible for specific maintenance duties in keeping pool area clean and in a safe operable condition. 

Know How:

Lifeguards must have current Lifeguarding, CPR-AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid certifications.  Guards should have skills in accident prevention, decision making, and rescue techniques. Guards should also be in good physical condition.

Job Segments:

• Report promptly for work in uniform at assigned time and ready to guard.  Uniform will consist of conservative one piece swimsuit, Y approved life guard shirt, holding the rescue tube with shoulder strap across the chest, whistle around the neck, fanny pack with breathing barrier and gloves.
• Upon arriving on deck for shift, check the whirlpool/spa, sauna and steam room, if applicable to your branch. How many are in this area, any hazards to report?
• Changing positions with an on-duty guard: on-duty guard exits during the in-coming guards walk around the pool.  In-coming guard will stand beside on-duty guard, while are both actively scanning the pool.  On-duty duty guard will discretely explain any issues in-coming needs to be aware of.  Example: weak swimmers, time someone has been in the spa area, medical conditions they were made aware of.   On-duty guard will step aside and allow the in-coming to get positioned.
• Guards must understand that positions will change for his/her zone based on bather load, glare and obstructions.
• Guards are required to guard from an elevated stand at the edge of the pool. Or stand at the edge of the pool and roam.  Either way eyes are actively scanning the pool.
• Guards must remain focused and actively scan the pool, with head moving side-to-side, never fixed. Talking at length to members, testing chemicals, changing lane lines, paper work, looking at watches or cell phones, eating or any other distractions are not permitted during guard shifts.
• All guards should Triage Scan; scanning the bottom of the pool for any swimmers, looking at swimmers in the eyes and watching body language for distress, and watching for any horseplay.
• Guards will recognize and investigate swimmers in distress within his/her zone within10 seconds. Guard must provide assistance within an additional 10 seconds by using proper scanning techniques to protect the entire zone of surveillance. This is known as 10/10 scanning.
• Guards are expected to move every 15 minutes by changing positions. This will keep the guard mentally sharp and help him/her focus.
• Guards should have a strong whistle to alert members there is an issue. For an emergency that requires members to clear the pool—  Guard should complete three short, strong whistles and then yell, clear the pool.  The guard will then activate the branch’s Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the Aquatic area.
• Guard must know and enforce all pool rules, including but not limited to, spa areas and water feature. Enforcement should be done in a courteous but firm manner.  Report persistent problems to the head guard or Aquatics Director.  Prohibit recklessness or rough play.  Safety First.
• Guards are not allowed to administer the swim test if he/she is in an active guard role at the time. Aquatics Director or other off-guard position will need to complete the test. 
• Any time guards do not feel comfortable with a swimmer’s ability, the guard should pull swimmer and have him/her wear a life jacket. Life jackets are an added layer of protection and the guard has the final rule/call on this decision. 
• Pool area will be cleared and closed during thunder and lightning events.  Keep pool closed until lightning/thunder have been absent for at least thirty (30) minutes.
• Pool and whirlpool chemicals are to be checked and recorded daily, before or after designated shift. Guards are not allowed to check chemicals while on-duty guarding.
• Adjustments that need to be made to spa areas and pool must be done promptly and should be brought to the attention of the Aquatics Director.
• Regular testing and up keep of all pool equipment should be done at the branch’s designated times.
• Pool should be locked, checking all doors, when lifeguard leaves the pool, or when a guard is not relieving you. The pool is not open for anyone to swim or use spa areas without a guard.
• Arrange for a substitute when unable to work. Staff should submit time off request or call in sick via branches’ protocols; text, call, complete forms or through branch app.
• Be familiar with and follow the policies and procedures outlined in the Rowan-Cabarrus YMCA Employee Handbook.

Effect On End Results:

This position ensures the YMCA members, guests and participants are safe by following pool rules and safety guidelines through great customer service delivery.

• Demonstrates a friendly environment for all individuals entering the facility.
• Displays a professional and positive attitude.
• Communicates clearly with members and guests on information you are sharing about safety rules, programs or membership which in turn will result in high satisfaction ratings.
• Works with Aquatic team to ensure safety protocols are followed. Lift others up by helping them.
• By performing these functions and skills, well, the guard will assist the YMCA in retaining members.