DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The work involves responsibility for safeguarding the lives and wellbeing of all patrons of a municipal swimming pool or natural water facility. Under direct supervision, an employee in this class is responsible for the safety of all patrons while they are using the swimming facility, whether in the water or on the deck or beach. Duties are performed with strict adherence to established safety rules and regulations. Laxity or poor judgement can result in personal injury or loss of life. Therefore, consequence of error must be the greatest consideration of a Lifeguard while on duty. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Provides close supervision over all swimmers while on duty in assigned lifeguard chair or while on foot patrol of deck or beach.

Rescues swimmers in danger of drowning.

Administers artificial respiration, mouth-to-mouth resuscitation or first aid as indicated.

Teaches swimming, assists at swimming meets and other aquatic programs scheduled at the facility.

Patrols deck or beach, inspecting areas for cleanliness and safety hazards.

Keeps order and enforces rules and regulations when patrons fail to observe them.

Inspects assigned life guarding and first aid equipment daily.

Sweeps and disinfects pool deck or rakes beach, removing cans, glass, bottles and litter.

Checks daily schedule for rotation duty in chair and remains at assigned post until relieved.

Participates in weekly drills conducted by facility manager.

Assists in the preparation of reports about serious injury or illness incidents occurring at a swimming pool or bathing facility.

During inclement weather, may, as assigned, assist park maintenance crews in simple park maintenance such as lawn mowing, grounds trimming, picking up litter, sweeping and mopping floors, cleaning lavatories and water closets, refilling paper towel and tissue dispensers, and simple maintenance and repair of beach equipment such as first aid boxes, life guarding buoys, poles, paddleboards and boats and beach signs.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Good knowledge of water rescue methods, first aid techniques and resuscitation (CPR).

Good knowledge of rules and regulations as they apply to public swimming areas.

Working knowledge of pool or swimming area operation and maintenance.

Skill in swimming, life guarding and administering first aid.

Ability to recognize emergency situation and to take immediate, effective action.

Ability to identify potentially dangerous situations and prevent them from arising.

Ability to provide swimming instruction when duties involve teaching.

Ability to coach various teams (swimming or diving) using facility, when assigned.

Ability to enforce facility rules and regulations with firmness and tact.

Physical strength, agility, and mental alertness to perform as a Lifeguard.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A. Possession of a current Lifeguard Training Certificate from the American National Red Cross or equivalent certificate from the YMCA or other certifying agency;

and,

B. Possession of a current CPR for Professional Rescuer Certificate from the American National Red Cross or other equivalent certifying agency on the basis of standards approved by the New York State Commissioner of Health.

SPECIAL NECESSARY REQUIREMENT

When assigned to teach swimming:

Possession of the American National Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Certificate or equivalent certificate from the YMCA or other certifying agency.

When assigned to a natural water facility:

Possession of the American Red Cross Water Front Life guarding Certificate.

Revised 7/2017