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Career Details : Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers

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Description

Monitor recreational areas, such as pools, beaches, or ski slopes, to provide assistance and protection to participants.

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed. For example, a drywall installer might benefit from experience installing drywall, but an inexperienced person could still learn to be an installer with little difficulty.

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma and may require some vocational training or job-related course work. In some cases, an associate's or bachelor's degree could be needed.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees.

Tasks

  • Patrols or monitors recreational areas, such as trails, slopes, and swimming areas, on foot, in vehicle, or from tower.
  • Observes activities in assigned area with binoculars to detect hazards, disturbances, or safety infractions.
  • Contacts emergency medical services in case of serious injury.
  • Rescues distressed persons, using rescue techniques and equipment.
  • Cautions recreational participant regarding inclement weather, unsafe areas, or illegal conduct.
  • Examines injured persons and administers first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, utilizing training and medical supplies and equipment.
  • Inspects recreational equipment, such as rope tows, T-bar, J-bar, and chair lifts, for safety hazards and damage or wear.
  • Inspects facilities for cleanliness and maintains order in recreational areas.
  • Participates in recreational demonstrations to entertain resort guests.
  • Instructs participants in skiing, swimming, or other recreational activity.
  • Maintains information on emergency medical treatment and weather and beach conditions, using report forms.

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    Important Abilities

    General Work Activities

    Important Skills

    Frequent Work Context

    • Responsible for Others' Health & Safety
    • Consequence of Error
    • Job-Required Social Interaction
    • Importance of Being Aware of New Events
    • Provide a Service to Others

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