Many people who become proficient lifesavers go on to become full time lifeguards at swimming pools and the beach. They work under contract. Depending where you work, lifeguarding can be great fun. You meet a lot of people and watch them have a good time. You can also help and teach them about sun protection and water safety.

Since this is a qualification for employment, many health and safety rules apply that require professional training beyond what we could offer on this web site. Ask your national lifesaving organisation for training details.

Get the Bronze Medallion first

The RLSS Bronze Medallion lifesaving award (our your local equivalent) provides a good foundation for your lifeguard training. Many courses need it as a pre-requisite.

Then make up your mind if you want to become a pool lifeguard or want to head for the beach. Pool lifeguards find work all year round, but it can get a bit boring at times. Beach lifeguard work may be seasonal, but can be more challenging.


Some people think lifeguarding is just a laid back job.