Lifeguard CPR training is often included in lifeguard training courses, which are offered by various organizations and companies around the world. The first step to learning lifeguard CPR is to locate a training course that meets the requirements of the area in which a person chooses to work.
The American Red Cross in the United States is a good starting point for U.S. residents. This organization provides high quality training, and is often the required training of companies and government ran entities, such as state beaches and community pools. Trainees must be at least 15 years of age, and able to swim specific distances. Lifeguard CPR training is included in the overall training program. The American Red Cross trains lifeguards to handle daily lifeguarding responsibilities, how to watch and assess the actions of swimmers, and of course how to rescue those in need.
Another resource for information about lifeguard CPR training is the United State Lifesaving Association, which is a non-profit organization that trains lifeguards to provide services at beaches and in open water rescues. It sets the standards for training, and ensures that training provided at outside facilities is adequate and prepares trainees to provide the best rescue tools available.
Every nation tends to have its own training authority. For example, in Belgium the contact for lifeguard training is the West Flemish Training Centre for Firemen, Lifeguards and Ambulance Crew. In Canada the National Lifeguard Service (NLS) is the organization for training in CPR and other lifeguard duties. China has its own recognized training organization, the Red Cross Society of the Republic of China, which is not part of the world wide Red Cross system.
Because the requirements vary for every nation, and even from one city to the next, it is best to look for training by a government-funded or a non-profit organization. There is usually some type of life saving organization or public safety entity at the city or county level that can give information about courses that provide certification in lifeguard CPR.
Once a person has completed training and lifeguard CPR courses, employment can be found at a variety of locations. Private pools and swim clubs, local beaches, lakes, some rivers, cruise ships, resorts, hotels, and water-parks employ lifeguards, usually on a seasonal basis. Trained lifeguards can even take further courses to learn how to train and certify other lifeguards, creating a unique business opportunity in a very important field.
