There’s a reason you should listen the neighborhood pool lifeguards when they say, “No running!”

Having lifeguards at the neighborhood pools, or really around any place where people might be near water such as the beach or water park, is important for many reasons. Primarily, lifeguards supervise swimmers, which hopefully helps to prevent pool-related accidents. But lifeguards also respond to any accidents or emergencies when they do happen. 

The first role of a lifeguard is to prevent accidents in order to keep everyone at the pool safe. Pools have rules and regulations, like the no running or the no diving in shallow water rules, in order to avoid accidents and distractions. When people are following the rules, it reduces the chance of accidents. It also helps the lifeguards stay focused on the swimmers in the water. That focus is essential when there is some accident or event in the water that needs their quick attention. 

Hopefully, lifeguards are never needed to respond to an emergency, but they are there if there is one. Lifeguards have training in water rescue techniques and first aid, including CPR, which can be lifesaving in the event of drowning, medical emergencies, or other water-related accidents. The presence of lifeguards increases the safety of all swimmers as well as provides peace of mind for both swimmers and their families. 

In addition, lifeguards are not just responders, they are educators. They help to create a safer swimming environment by actively engaging the public in water safety. Oftentimes, lifeguards provide swim lessons, and they share their knowledge about water safety at neighborhood pools. Helping people understand the importance of water safety and learning how to swim is all part of the role of lifeguards to help reduce the likelihood of avoidable water-related accidents.

In essence, lifeguards are a critical component of water safety at neighborhood pools. Their presence helps prevent injuries and emergencies, but they are able to respond to injuries and emergencies when needed. They are the enforcers of rules and regulations, but it is all in an effort to not have to use their lifesaving rescue skills. So pay attention when the lifeguard at the pool this summer says, “no running!” Ultimately, lifeguards help provide a safe and fun environment for kids and families to enjoy their neighborhood pools.