Pool and Water Safety Tips for Lifeguards and Pool Owners

Whether you’re managing a public pool, backyard oasis, or community swim club, water safety should always be the top priority. Lifeguards and pool owners carry a shared responsibility: keeping swimmers safe while ensuring fun. A single moment of inattention can lead to a life-threatening emergency, but proper preparation and vigilance can prevent accidents.

At Northern Nevada CPR, we emphasize CPR, AED, and First Aid training for anyone responsible for swimmers—because knowing how to respond can save lives. Here’s how to stay prepared all season long:

1. Always Be Alert

For Lifeguards:

• Stay focused—avoid phones, books, or long conversations.

• Rotate positions regularly to prevent fatigue.

• Scan your zone every 10 seconds and be able to reach a swimmer within 20 seconds.

• Take hydration and rest breaks to maintain alertness.

For Pool Owners:

• Never assume someone else is watching—assign a responsible adult as the “Water Watcher.”

• Don’t rely on floaties or toys as a substitute for supervision.

2. Establish and Enforce Pool Rules

Clear, visible rules prevent accidents before they happen. Key rules include:

• No running or rough play near the pool

• No diving in shallow areas

• No glass containers

• Swim with a buddy

• No swimming during storms

• Children must always be supervised

  
  

Northern Nevada CPR recommends lifeguards enforce rules respectfully but firmly to ensure safety.

3. Keep Rescue and First Aid Equipment Nearby

Essential safety tools include:

• Reaching pole and life ring

• Rescue tube or buoy

• Fully stocked first aid kit

• CPR mask or face shield

• AED (especially for larger or public pools)

  
  

Regular CPR, AED, and water rescue training from Northern Nevada CPR ensures everyone is prepared when seconds matter.

4. Maintain a Safe Pool Environment

For Pool Owners:

• Keep water clear, balanced, and filtered

• Use fencing at least 4 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates

• Store pool chemicals safely, out of reach of children

• Remove toys when not in use

For Lifeguards:

• Report broken equipment, slippery surfaces, or visibility issues immediately

• Ensure safety signage is visible and up-to-date

5. Be Prepared for Emergencies

• Have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and rehearse it regularly

• Lifeguards: perform in-service training and mock rescues

• Pool owners: share emergency plans with family or guests

• Post emergency numbers clearly by the pool phone

6. Encourage Swimming Skills and Education

• Promote swim lessons for all ages

• Teach children never to enter the pool without an adult

• Educate swimmers on the signs of drowning—it’s often silent and fast

7. Monitor Weather Conditions

• Close the pool immediately at signs of lightning or thunder

• High winds can reduce visibility and create hazards

• Secure loose items like umbrellas or floats

Conclusion

Whether you’re a professional lifeguard or a backyard pool owner, vigilance, preparation, and clear communication are essential for safe swimming. Accidents happen fast—but with the right training, you can respond confidently and save lives.

Take the first step toward safer swimming today with CPR, AED, and First Aid training from Northern Nevada CPR.

Learn more and book your class at NorthernNevadaCPR.com