Lifeguard Fun Facts

Lifeguard Salaries. How Do You Fare?

Average hourly salaries for “basic” lifeguards across the nation:

Southwest $14.45
Northwest $14.95
Great Lakes $9.75
Gulf Coast $9.54
Southeast $14.17
South Atlantic $12.50
Mid Atlantic $12.89
Hawaii $15.01
As of March 2011, the average national salary for lifeguards is $24,000 per year. Experienced Lifeguards who work year-round can make between $12 and $27 per hour.

 

Who can Certify Lifeguards in the U.S.?

Although qualifications for employment vary depending on the state, type of facility, and specific employer, the following organizations are recognized nationwide for their outstanding lifeguard programs and certifications:

The American Red Cross Lifeguarding program
The American ifeguard Association
The YMCA
The City of Los Angeles
Boy Scouts of America
ILTP™ Training Centers (International Lifeguard Training Program)
Aqua Sports Inc.

The Standard in open water surf training is the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA)

Additional reputable programs can be found at local colleges and city, parks and recreation departments. Google your city and “lifeguard certification” to find a facility near you.

Learn to save a life. Be a lifeguard.

 

Lifeguard Quotes

  • One in four people know someone who has drowned
    American Red Cross
  • Of the total drowning deaths per year, those that occur under lifeguard supervision account for less than 1%
    USLA
  • Los Angeles County Lifeguards perform over 10,000 ocean rescues a year
    LA Fire Department
  • Rip currents account for 80 percent of lifeguards’ beach rescues.
  • The Los Angeles County Fire Department Lifeguard Division deploys 130+ full-time and 650+ seasoal lifeguards. They are responsible for 76 miles of coastline, including 31 miles of public beach.
  • U.S. lifeguards rescue more than an estimated 100,000 persons from drowning annually.
    USLA