Things lifeguards do and dont want you to know

Things lifeguards do and don't want you to know

Training - Lifeguards got through many hours of rigorous training in order to become certified professionals. As such, they develop many skills.

Training - Most lifeguards are equipped to deal with a wide range of scenarios: from a small cut, to a life-threatening situation that requires CPR or other emergency techniques.

Watch your kids - Lifeguards are not babysitters. If you have children, it's your responsibility to watch out for their safety.

Don't touch living creatures - You're not alone at the beach. You'll likely find plenty of sea creatures, but please leave them alone and don't touch them.

Close your mouth - Most of us open our mouths while we're in the pool, but we should be extra careful not to swallow any water.

Close your mouth - A study by the University of Alberta found that there are nearly 75 liters of urine in an average public swimming pool!

Selfish swimmers - Lap swimmers in crowded pools are a bit of a pet peeve for some lifeguards. Being in a leisure pool is all about sharing the fun in the water, not taking over it.

Crowded pools - Lifeguards actually prefer crowded pools. This will keep them focused. If there are just one or two people in the water, it's easier for them to get bored.

Chemicals - Lifeguards also have to deal with chemicals, and some powerful ones too, such as chlorine.

Don't go barefootin' - Numerous viruses and bacteria thrive in conditions found at swimming pools, so it's always a good idea to wear flip-flops.

Young - Some lifeguards can indeed be very young, depending where you are in the world. It's not uncommon to find lifeguards as young as 15 or 16.

Booze - Don't get drunk! This not only puts you at risk of dehydration, but you will also misjudge danger, making you more likely to put yourself in greater risk.

Be visible - If you can't see the lifeguard, guess what? Most likely the lifeguard won't be able to see you either!

It can be a dirty job - Sometimes being a lifeguard can indeed be a dirty job. They have to deal with all sorts of body fluids, and clean up lots of gross things.