Everyone dreams of living in the Big Apple and now, as an adult, you can be part of the New York City lifeguard force and make your dream come true! New York City lifeguards play an essential role in public safety and serve all five boroughs. The City of New York is providing an increased number of positions to substitute lifeguards, making it a better opportunity for many people to join the force. But, there are some things to consider before applying and even prior to being accepted.
Overview of Being a New York City Lifeguard
It is much easier to become a New York City lifeguard this year due to the increase in positions. Becoming a NYC lifeguard is a great opportunity to start a career as a professional while getting to live in the greatest city in the world. As a lifeguard, you would help keep beach and pool patrons safe, teach water safety classes, help with aquatic rescue and provide first-response medical assistance if needed. The job is physically demanding, so you must be able to pass the physical tests and stay in shape throughout the training and aptitude processes.
Requirements for Becoming a Lifeguard
In order to become a New York City lifeguard, you must meet basic requirements and gain the necessary certifications. The minimum requirements needed to begin the application process include:
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Complete a lifeguard certification course
• Have a valid CPR/AED certification
• Have a valid First Aid Certification
• Submit a resume
• Be able to swim 500 yards continuously
• Successfully complete all physical tests and aptitude tests
Training and Certifications
Being a lifeguard is a serious job that requires a person to take responsibility for others’ safety. Therefore, applicants must complete a certified lifeguard training course with a minimum of 40 hours. The training includes classroom work and a variety of physical tests. Upon completion of the training program, participants will receive a lifeguard certificate and a lifesaving certificate from the American Red Cross.
Physical Tests and Aptitude Tests
In order to become a New York City lifeguard, applicants must pass a number of physical and aptitude tests. These tests include:
• Swim Test: Applicants must swim 500 yards continuously using any stroke
• Run/Surf-skill Test: Applicants must run 1 mile and then swim 100 yards against a moderate current
• Endurance Test: Applicants must complete the “Ironman” — swim 500 yards, run/jog 1 mile, and then swim 500 yardsagain )all without resting in between)
• Survival Float Test: Applicants must float on their back for 5 minutes using breath-control techniques
• Dive/Reach Test: Applicants must dive and retrieve a 10-pound weight from a depth of 7 feet
• Lifting Test: Applicants must lift a 150-pound dummy from the pool bottom and bring it to the edge of the pool
• Aptitude Test: Applicants must pass a written 100-question multiple-choice exam that tests basic knowledge of aquatic rescue and CPR/AED procedures
Additional Requirements
The final requirements for becoming a lifeguard include:
• Be able to work in outdoor and potentially hazardous environments.
• Be in good physical condition and able to swim 7 days a week.
• Be reliable and dependable.
• Be willing to work day and night shifts, including holidays and weekends.
• Be able to stand for long periods of time.
• Be able to communicate effectively and courteously with pool visitors and personnel.
• Be comfortable making quick decisions and working alone.
The New York City lifeguard position is an incredible opportunity that comes with great rewards, such as being part of the New York City skyline with plenty of places to visit and explore. Becoming a lifeguard is not as difficult as it may seem as the City of New York has increased the number of positions available this year. You must meet all of the requirements and successfully complete all physical and aptitude tests in order to become a certified lifeguard. With hard work and dedication, you can join other lifeguards keeping beaches and pools safe throughout New York City!
