Effective Lifeguard Surveillance and Positioning Techniques
Lifeguard Post Location Criteria
The lifeguard post location should be determined based on:
- Maximizing visual coverage of the supervised area.
- Ensuring immediate access to the water.
- Efficient distribution of multiple posts, based on:
- Estimated risks within the area.
- Physical characteristics (size, shape, depth, etc.) of the area.
For example, in conventional rectangular pools, it is often more effective to place the post along one of the long sides. If there are two posts and a distinct deep zone, the second post might be positioned midway along the short side adjacent to the deep end.
Static vs. Dynamic Surveillance Methods
Static Surveillance: The lifeguard observes the area from a fixed monitoring post.
Advantages include familiarity with reference points for interventions and awareness of peripheral or blind spots requiring special attention.
However, a static position can lead to reduced attention over time or excessive relaxation.
Dynamic Surveillance: The lifeguard monitors the area while patrolling the edge of the swimming zone.
This approach allows for more direct contact and communication with users for providing information or recommendations.
Conversely, movement can potentially unbalance surveillance coverage (e.g., reduced vigilance in one area while focusing on another) and increase exposure to distractions from nearby patrons.
Strategies for Area Control
Zone control strategies vary based on the area’s size and can be implemented in three ways:
Control Types
- Global Control: All lifeguards patrol the entire area.
- Restricted Control: Each lifeguard watches over a specific, assigned area. (Cannot be implemented in areas with only one lifeguard).
- Combined Control: Part of the rescue team performs global control, while others reinforce surveillance through restricted control in high-risk areas.
Observation Strategies
Regarding observation strategies, several approaches can be distinguished:
- Prioritize observing activities from highest to lowest risk.
- Focus on individuals with weaker swimming abilities first.
- Monitor individuals with limited capabilities (e.g., children, elderly) before those less constrained.
In all cases, monitoring should adhere approximately to the 10:20 System. This system dictates that a lifeguard must be able to scan their entire assigned zone within 10 seconds and reach any incident within that zone in 20 seconds.
Managing Lifeguard Watchkeeping Duties
The lifeguard’s work environment can lead to distraction and long-term mental fatigue.
Concentration levels decrease due to:
- The passage of time.
- Habituation to unchanging stimuli.
To mitigate this, a system of rotation and breaks should be established (if staffing levels permit).
Breaks should be integrated into the rotation schedule, ensuring rested lifeguards can effectively manage demanding posts.