Occ. Code 1559100
LIFEGUARD , GRADE 5/NS
New York State Department of Civil Service
Classification Standard
Lifeguards are responsible for the supervision of an assigned area of a beach or pool and have the direct and primary responsibility for the supervision, safety, and protection of patrons. They ensure that all rules and regulations that apply in swimming areas are observed by patrons using the facility and are responsible for preventing accidents and rescuing distressed swimmers.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Lifeguard: non-competitive class; works under the direct supervision of a Chief Lifeguard or Assistant Chief Lifeguard; requires a high level of physical and mental fitness; performs lifesaving functions under conditions of physical and mental stress.
ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES
- Provides water surveillance, guards pool areas, provides direct supervision and protection of swimmers, ensures patrons are aware of and follow all rules and regulations as appropriate in an effort to prevent accidents.
- Ensures all rules are prominently posted and encourages proper conduct and voluntary compliance with all park rules and regulations, informs patrons of violations and removes violators from the area.
- Initiates and/or responds to swimmer-in-distress signals, immediately assesses the danger and initiates the appropriate rescue assistance procedures.
- Performs resuscitation and other first aid procedures as necessary.
- Evacuates swimming area in response to a dangerous or emergency situation, directs orderly evacuation, maintains crowd control and notifies appropriate staff.
- Assists in preparing written reports of all accidents and rescues.
- May perform other duties as assigned, including any assigned supervisory responsibilities.
- Promotes good public relations.
INDEPENDENCE OF OPERATION
Lifeguards are generally supervised by a Chief Lifeguard or an Assistant Chief Lifeguard but must exercise a considerable amount of independent judgement in performing duties. They are expected to make decisions and apply various procedures, rules, regulations and guidelines. Must be able to act quickly and instinctively to detect and deter activities that are potentially hazardous.
COMMUNICATION
Lifeguards have frequent face-to-face communication with the public to provide information, answer questions and provide assistance. They must use tact and diplomacy to encourage proper behavior and use of facilities when enforcing rules and regulations.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Must be at least 15 years of age (preference is given to individuals 18 years of age or older) and possess current certificates in American Red Cross Lifeguard Training, Lifeguard Waterfront Module (exception for NYC) and CPR for the Professional Rescuer, or equivalent certifications from an agency approved by the Commissioner of NYS Parks. All current American Red Cross Lifeguard training certifications should include first aid. If not, a standard first aid certificate is required. A current separate CPR certificate is required. A Water Park Module is also required for any lifeguard working at a park having water slides. First Aid and Lifeguard certificates must be dated within the last three years; CPR certificates must be dated within the last year (recertification acceptable). NYS Parks Lifeguards must maintain current certification in all required training programs during the term of their employment. A minimum of 20/40 uncorrected vision is required in each eye.
Date: 10/03
NOTE: Classification Standards illustrate the nature, extent and scope of duties and responsibilities of the classes they describe. Standards cannot and do not include all of the work that might be appropriately performed by a class. The minimum qualifications above are those which were required for appointment at the time the Classification Standard was written. Please contact the Division of Staffing Services for current information on minimum qualification requirements for appointment or examination.