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When you visit a Columbia Association (CA) pool, you might notice lifeguards regularly rotating in and out of their stations. To some guests, it may look like they’re taking frequent breaks. However, these rotations are a critical part of keeping our pools safe. 

As you watch our “Day in the Life of a Lifeguard” video, we wanted to share a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to become a CA lifeguard, why rotations matter and the extensive training our team completes throughout the season. 

Safety starts with vigilance 

Lifeguarding requires intense focus to continuously scan the water, identify potential hazards and be prepared to respond immediately if someone needs help. 

That’s why lifeguards don’t remain in the chair for an entire shift. CA follows rotation guidelines established by the Model Aquatic Health Code and our licensing provider, Ellis & Associates. Guards rotate on a structured schedule that includes time on surveillance and time off the stand, often referred to as a “down.” 

These downs aren’t simply breaks – they’re an important safety practice designed to maintain vigilance. By rotating regularly, lifeguards stay alert throughout the day, especially during long shifts in the heat and sun. 

Why you see so many lifeguards 

CA staffs its pools at a ratio of one lifeguard for every 25 guests. Because attendance fluctuates throughout the day, we intentionally schedule additional guards so we can adjust coverage as needed and maintain safe operations. 

Every lifeguard on deck plays an important role in a carefully planned staffing model designed around safety. During rotations, guards may: 

• Conduct facility rounds 
• Help keep pool areas clean and safe 
• Check restrooms and common areas 
• Assist with operational tasks 
• Participate in training activities 
• Take a scheduled recovery break before returning to surveillance 

The training starts before pools open  

Before becoming a CA lifeguard, candidates must first pass a rigorous water skills assessment to demonstrate they are physically capable of performing the job. This prerequisite evaluation includes: 

• A 200-meter continuous swim 
• A feet-first surface dive to the deepest part of the pool, retrieving a rescue brick from the bottom of the pool 
• Treading water for two minutes while demonstrating the ability to support another person without using their hands 

Once hired, new lifeguards complete 36 hours of training before they begin working. Returning lifeguards complete an eight-hour refresher course each year to recertify and review essential skills. 

Certification is only the beginning. Throughout the season, CA lifeguards participate in monthly in-service training sessions totaling approximately five hours each month. These ongoing trainings help staff practice and refine critical skills, including: 

• CPR and first aid 
• Rescue techniques 
• Emergency response procedures 
• Heat emergency management 
• Leadership development 
• Team coordination during incidents 

Specialized training for our community 

Serving a diverse community means understanding the diverse needs of our guests. Each Memorial Day weekend, our aquatics team participates in autism awareness training to better support individuals and families who visit our facilities. All of CA’s outdoor pools have earned Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation.

This additional training helps staff create a more welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment for everyone. 

See you soon! 

One final reminder: If you have a question during your visit, please stop by the guard table or front desk rather than speaking directly to a lifeguard actively watching the pool. Those guards are responsible for continuously monitoring swimmers, and minimizing distractions helps them focus on keeping everyone safe. 

We hope to see you at one of CA’s 23 outdoor pools this season. Be sure to bookmark CA’s interactive pool guide for real-time updates on pool capacity, available amenities and more.