YMCA OF GREATER INDIANAPOLIS

POSITION DESCRIPTION

YMCA MISSION

To put Christian principles into practice through programs that enhance personal growth and improve health of spirit, mind and body for all.

GENERAL FUNCTION

Under the direction of the Aquatic Coordinator/Program Specialist and Head Guard, the Lifeguard is responsible for providing a safe environment for all participants in and around the pool, which includes responding to emergencies and administering CPR and First Aid effectively (according to certifications-YMCA and American Heart Association guidelines).

KNOW HOW

Ø  Must be at least 16 years of age.

Ø  Must possess and maintain current YMCA Lifeguard certificate, American Red Cross Lifeguard certificate or Ellis and Associates Lifeguard Certificate, including current First Aid and CPR Healthcare Provider certifications.

Ø  Must have the ability to pass basic lifeguard skills test, including swimming 500 yards.

Ø  Must possess and have the ability to relate to and communicate with people of all ages, cultures, and abilities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Ø  Ensure the safety of participants by eliminating/reducing hazards and hazardous behavior in aquatic areas.

Ø  Be a role model by consistently demonstrating a healthy lifestyle and positive attitude towards the YMCA.

Ø  Maintain accurate record of hours worked and be responsible for finding substitutes for absences.

Ø  Practice preventative lifeguarding by following and enforcing pool rules and policies, and completing a routine check of pool and deck area.

Ø  Engage in positive public relations with participants.

Ø  Wear appropriate uniform while on duty, as outlined in the uniform guidelines.

Ø  Perform rescues and emergency procedures in accordance with facility policies.

Ø  Attend all trainings, staff meetings and assigned guard drills.

Ø  Check and record water temperature and chemical levels on a regular basis and notify supervisor of any irregularities.

Ø  Keep accurate records/statistics daily, including documentation of pool usage.

Ø  Document and report all accidents/incidents to supervisor immediately.

Ø  Perform all maintenance as assigned.

Ø  Ensure safety during inclement weather situations and follow YMCA Aquatic Standards.

PHYSICAL & MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Ø  Remain alert, with no lapses in consciousness.

Ø  Ability to sit for extended periods, including in an elevated chair.

Ø  Ability to move to various locations, including in and around an elevated chair.

Ø  Ability to stand for extended periods of time.

Ø  Communicate verbally, including projecting the voice across distances, and communicating       with emergency response personnel over the telephone.

Ø  Ability to work under specific instructions, work alone and under stressful conditions.

Ø  Ability to direct and control the activities of others.

Ø  Hear noises and distress signals, even in aquatic environment when distracted by noise.

Ø  Observe all areas of the water and recognize victims in distress.

Ø  Ability to crouch and bend at the waist and knees.

Ø  Ability to work in a variety of environments, specifically those subject to extreme

Ø  humidity/dampness and heat.

Ø  Ability to come into contact with pool chemicals.

Ø  Physically and mentally able to perform rescue/survival skills and observe and promote safety procedures and administer CPR and First Aid effectively.

Ø  Think in abstract, solve problems, make decisions, instruct, evaluate, remember and supervise.

Ø  Ability to communicate effectively with members, participants, YMCA staff and general public.

MEMBER INVOLVEMENT SKILLS

Ø  Be informed and up to date on the latest developments in the field.

Ø  Acquaint members with other YMCA programs and benefits.

Ø  Develop relationships that promote the building of small communities.

Ø  Recommend participation in a variety of YMCA programs.

Ø  Support our YMCA annual campaign by inviting members to participate.

Ø  Be able to articulate the role and importance of volunteers.

Ø  Be informed about volunteer opportunities.

Ø  Provide an environment in which valuing diversity is encouraged and the 40 Developmental Assets can be built and emphasized.

EFFECT ON END RESULT

1.                              Programs will operate safely and smoothly as evidenced by adequate pool coverage, enforcement of pool policies and few accidents/incidents reported by members and participants.

2.                              Participants will enjoy the program and feel positive about being involved with the YMCA.  Program growth should result.

I agree to fulfill these responsibilities and follow these procedures.