Lifeguards save more than 100,000 lives each year

Those who choose to become lifeguards take on an abundant amount of responsibility. Being a lifeguard is demanding yet rewarding.

I will highlight drowning statistics and provide information on what it takes to become a lifeguard.

Drowning statistics

A total of 1.2 million people throughout the world drown each year, which equates to greater than two people every minute.

Of those who drown every year, more than half are children. In addition, nearly one-third of adolescent drownings take place in or near their home.

A considerable amount of swimmers have a near drowning experience, but they reach safety by themselves or with the help of a friend, parent or lifeguard. There are up to 10 times more people who nearly drown than those who actually drown.

More males drown than females.

The majority of drownings take place in the following three age groups:

* Ages 0-5

* Ages 20-25

* Over the age of 60

Hundreds of thousands of lives are saved each year by lifeguards.

What it takes to become a lifeguard

Becoming a lifeguard requires a combination of strong swimming skills and a desire to save lives. When wanting to become a lifeguard, there are skills you must have and necessary classes to take.

Lifeguard classes and certifications include:

* Red Cross or YMCA Lifeguard Training Certification

* CPR for the Professional Rescuer

* Standard First Aid and Oxygen

Each job location may require different classes and certifications. These are the three certifications necessary to become a lifeguard at my local YMCA.

How much do lifeguards get paid and where do they work?

The average hourly pay for lifeguards is $9.25. This does fluctuate with experience and by site. Accomplished beach lifeguards can collect $16 an hour or more.

Lifeguards can work at the following places:

* YMCAs

* Recreation centers

* Private clubs

* Public schools

* Hotels

* Apartment buildings

* Beaches

* Water parks

Some other things lifeguards can do:

* Teach swimming classes

* Become an aquatic director

* Coach a swim team

Lifeguard History

It all began in the year 1912, when the YMCA started a National Lifesaving Service. In 1914, Commodore Wilbert E. Longfellow organized the American Red Cross Lifesaving. This taught U.S. swimmers lifesaving and revival skills. Classes and certifications have progressed, leading us to where we are now.

Famous lifeguards:

40th President, Ronald Reagan: Reagan began his work as a lifeguard in 1926, and he is believed to have saved 77 lives over seven summers.

Actor Sean Connery: Before becoming an actor, Connery had many jobs including a bricklayer and a lifeguard. These jobs came after Connery's three years in the British Navy.

More from this Contributor:

Adolescents on swim teams learn more than just swimming

Why contacts should never be worn while swimming

The different types of sports related fractures

Total body health for athletes

Rebecca completed courses in Medical Terminology, Administrative Medical Assisting and Coding and Billing. She is recognized by the National Healthcareer Association as a Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) and Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA). In addition, Rebecca is avid about swimming, jogging and other athletic activities.

Sources:

International Life Saving Federation

YMCA

Original Waterman

NPR (National Public Radio)

NY Daily News

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