LIFEGUARDS IRELAND

Lifeguards protecting our Environment

2011-06-29T12:05:00.000+01:00

Is there a career for our beach Lifeguards as environmentalists ? Well, after all you enjoy the best in Ireland that nature can provide in the course of your work on the beach. Should you be the un-official caretaker and do what is necessary to maintain that special environment.

In your remote Lifeguard Station on our beautiful coast have you heard the Cuckoo this year? Did you observe the Sky Larks ? Do you make an effort to protest their nesting sites? Have you spotted an otter along the river banks? I know one Lifeguard who has great pleasure in observing a Kingfisher on the estuary where he works. Do you know the different ladybird insects and how they vary from east to west coast?

All reports please would be welcome.

lifeguards

International Equivalency of your Award or Qualification

2011-06-29T11:49:00.000+01:00

Many of you have contacted Lifeguards Ireland to determine the equivalency of awards and qualifications. This is especially true of those now having to emigrate to make a living abroad. Or those wishing to travel to Ireland with the own national award or qualification.We have published the ILS table of equivalency on the 'Latest News' page and we hope it will be of help to you. However, please remember that in most countries you are still required to meet the national standard or at the minimum meet a local skills and fitness standard. So take nothing for granted and it is wise to remember that in many countries the competition is really tough!!

AQUATIC FIRST AID COURSE

2011-06-29T11:37:00.000+01:00

I am delighted to be able to inform you that we have now finalised the one day 'AQUATIC FIRST AID' course. It is a simple add-on for Lifeguards to your NBLQ and is certified by EMERGENCY CARE.
Check out the First Aid page or contact us to arrange a course.

lifeguards

Tombstoning or Pier Jumping Dangers

2011-06-29T11:33:00.000+01:00

I have been reading about 'cliff jumping' or 'Tombstoning' and it must be said that it generates a degree of concern. The numbers of deaths throughout the world are staggering to say the least. While aware of the potential dangers I was not prepared for the statistics of death and serious injury. It seems that it is not only the height of the jump but importantly the entry into the water, and also water depth. I checked stats in the UK and there has been 10 deaths and numerous 'life changing injuries' in the last four years and that does not include inland waters like rivers and lakes. I can't find stats for Ireland, anyone help?

So its not just about drowning but rather broken necks and shattered spines. Any jump from a height is traumatic to the body. As height increases, the risk for serious injury goes up substantially. At 3m (10’), your body is travelling at approximately 27km/h (17mph) when you hit the water. At 6m (20’), you’re going about 40km/h (25mph).

Even if you decide that the water is deep enough and you go in feet first, your speed is great enough to cause spinal compression, bone fractures, concussion, or a collapsed lung. All your internal organs are impacted and may move or 'displace' in your body! An awkward entry - landing even slightly off-center - can have a lethal and final result.

It raises questions for Lifeguards where the activity of 'Pier Jumping' exists in their zones. I know of areas and people that promote this activity, probably not realising the potential dangers.

What of the view that kids jumping off the local pier is ok and have we not always done it?
It has to be considered that kids jumping just a few feet into water wearing life jackets are also at risk. Often these kids are poor swimmers and doggie paddle back to their exit point. They may not clear the entry point before the next jumper with the added risk of collision and spinal injuries. There is also a risk of injury from loose fitting life jackets or worse slipping out! What if the water is on unknown depth and the possibility of hitting the bottom and resulting impact fractures of legs and spine. So who takes the responsibility? And what of the Duty to Care?

Have a look at the link to the RNLI and see their views.

Not not wishing to spoil anyone's fun but let's discuss it. Your views please.

Jack

Last Chance for the Beach Lifeguard Courses

2011-06-29T11:32:00.000+01:00

So all you guys that have been emailing Lifeguards Ireland ............... this is it !! Courses for the National Beach Lifeguard Qualification are winding down. If you are waiting for the snow, well ok, there are courses in Feb. However, if not then check out our 'Courses' page right now.

Safety Awareness for Beginner Surfers

2011-04-15T14:44:00.001+01:00

Just wanted to let you know about an incident I had in Strandhill on Saturday last. While walking back along the walkway from a surf lesson I spotted a bodyboarder stuck in a rip going no where. I shouted encouragement and direction to him and he managed to scramble ashore onto the rock armour at high tide. There were two surfers with him now stuck and getting tired. As I prepared to go out to them with a surfboard a big set washed them closer to shore. One managed to get to the rocks and we pulled him onto the armour. The other guy was very tired and as I kept shouting encouragement and direction to him he got close enough for me to wade and grab him. As I got him a big wave hit us and literally flushed us up onto the rock armour and then dragged us back into the sea.totally out of control. This happened a second time before I could grab the surfer and drag him up.It was the first time in my life that I felt the raw power of surf washing onto the rocks and was totally out of control. Pretty scary and Now have a very sore back and arms. Thankfully all ended well. I wish beginner surfers would respect the sea and only surf within their ability level... T.H.

Storm Weather and Beach Lifeguard Courses

2011-01-19T18:19:00.000Z

Well, we survived the storm in Donegal. The wind reached to 100mph gusts on the western seaboard. Much structural damage, fallen trees and local flooding. Sadly, one death resulted from the severe gales in Derry. With the new moon and all the heavy rainfall all we were afraid of was the wind direction!! However it remained south-west backing off west. It is the northern gales that would cause us the biggest problems!
Now it is back to planning the next beach lifeguard course.

All Surf Coaches get booking - this is your opportunity to acquire your NBLQ. Don't leave it until the middle of the season.

Lost joys of snuffing tobacco!

2010-07-08T18:43:00.002+01:00

I though this might get your attention! My Granny snuffed tobacco off the back of her hand. It was very genteel and acceptable as a lady of her generation could certainly not smoke.
She had a little wooden box which contained her snuff. I just wondered if anyone snuffs now? If so, where do the buy it? Now no smart answers!!

Surf Coach Life Saving Award (SCLSA)

2010-05-25T12:42:00.003+01:00

The new proposed SURF COACH LIFE SAVING AWARD (SCLSA) should be available from July onwards. We have been given to understand that resulting from a series of workshops that a pilot course has now been held and the SCLSA will now be referred to the technical advisory group for ratification.

So, fingers crossed!! I know that many of you, both trainers and surfers are waiting patiently now since the idea was first mooted. It is intended that the award should have solid substance with endorsements from the governing bodies of surfing both in Europe and Internationally. This is important, in that the recognition and support of the award crosses all national borders.

We will keep you posted on developments !!

Fitness Training for Beach and Pool Lifeguards

2010-05-25T12:10:00.003+01:00

Fitness Testing for Lifeguards

NOTE: This statement is intended for those lifesavers, acting in a professional or volunteer capacity, who are trained in the techniques of water rescue and resuscitation and who assume a duty to safeguard members of the public at aquatic sites. They may be called lifeguards, lifesavers or both. This statement is not directed at members of the public trained in water safety and rescue techniques, but without a duty to respond, who may also be known, in some areas of the world, as lifesavers.

The standards outlined in this position statement are the minimum that ILS recommends. ILS encourages organisations to exceed these recommended minimum standards where local conditions and/or expectations of lifeguards are warranted.

Background

Experts in the field of lifeguard training and rescue believe that lifeguards need to be able to demonstrate a reasonable level of fitness. It is presumed that lifeguards would have sound swimming and water rescue skills.

The available English language studies in the aquatic setting were reviewed. The data is cohort studies of lifeguard pre-employment assessment outcomes. Level of evidence from the research is low and not directly related to the question addressed in this review. There are no direct outcome data for lifeguards responding to victims. The level of evidence in literature is low and most frequently expert opinion. The swimming data was extrapolated from swimming pool environments. The beach data did not involve swimming.

Lifeguard training manuals from many national lifeguard training programs were reviewed. Many had minimum swimming performance recommendations, based on consensus expert opinion. These recommendations have been in place for many years and in some cases many decades. This history of application of recommendations to the issue at hand is the strongest evidence available.

Many national lifeguard training organisations have been using similar fitness testing standards for many years. There is a lack of evidence of success and a lack of evidence of risk or injury to victims or rescuers. Retrospective and prospective research is recommended to provide further data on this issue. The recommendations that follow are based on consensus expert opinion of the ILS Rescue Committee.

Statement

The International Life Saving Federation recommends that prospective research is recommended to provide data on this issue.

The minimum standards of fitness testing for lifeguards are recommended as follows, until there is data to confirm, refute or modify these consensus expert opinion recommendations.

1.A swimming test is an appropriate way of demonstrating fitness in a lifeguard.

2.Fitness tests should be conducted with the bare minimum of equipment (i.e. no fins or flotation devices), and can be conducted in any suitable body of water over a measured distance. If the swim test is being conducted in a pool, that pool should be a minimum of 25 meters in length.

3.Training organisations should ensure candidates are safe in the environment in which they will be participating in their lifeguard training. At all times the safety of lifeguards undertaking a fitness test is paramount. Organisations conducting fitness tests for lifeguards should ensure their safety through the provision of adequate water coverage including the use of surveillance and rescue craft where appropriate.

4.Assess the level of swimming ability in a safe environment, prior to training in an open water environment. For clarification, ILS has not recommended a minimum entry (pre-test) assessment. Each organisation undertaking training should have an entry level pre-test based on their particular circumstances. In the absence of a pre-test being undertaken, appropriate risk mitigant strategies need to be put in place.

5.Appropriate skill training in the environment in which the lifeguard will be operating is also recommended including how to enter the water, wading techniques, surf swimming skills, use of rips, etc. Research by Tipton et al concluded that pool swim times and other land-based tests do not strongly predict surf swimming performance. Therefore, it is recommended that tests for surf lifeguards be conducted in the surf environment.

6.Assessing fitness through a minimum swim fitness standard -

1.The ILS recommended minimum swimming requirement for beach and open water lifeguard award is: 400 metres in 8 minutes.

2.The ILS recommended minimum swimming requirement for pool lifeguard award is: 400 metres continuous un-timed and a timed test of 50 meters in 50 seconds.

7.Operational requirement
Organisations should assess operational requirements and where necessary develop additional specific standards to meet that operational requirement. This may include a timed run, lifting (weight) standard, timed utilisation of equipment specific to that operation/location or a combination of the above (i.e. a timed run/swim/run).

With acknowlegment to ILS Lifesaving Commission

BEACH LIFEGUARD ADVERTISED JOBS

2010-03-10T19:12:00.008Z

Read all the information carefully before making your application and do read the advice and tips on this blog!! Best advice is get training and apply early to the County Councils of your choice. It is best to apply to a number of Local Authorities in case you do not get the one of first choice. Keep a sharp eye on local newspaper adverts for updates and tests etc.

Timed Swim and other issues for beach lifeguard jobs in 2010

2010-01-13T14:22:00.004Z

For those of you that are planning to join the ranks of the County Council beach lifeguards in 2010 will need to be training now. We gets loads of phone calls and emails as to what you will have to do to get a job. Can I stress again please read the info on the Beach Lifeguard page on our website, follow all the links, as almost all the answers are to be found somewhere on our website!!

In a nutshell, you'll need to be fit (swim 400m in a pool in less than 7mins. 30secs) have excellent skills in resuscitation to the ERC standards, hold a valid recognised first aid certificate, preferably OFA, be ocean friendly and a good team player.

And remember apply to the local authority of your choice as soon as the adverts appear in the newspapers and indeed no harm to apply to a number of local authorities as you may not get the area of first choice and this year the competition is going to be very tough.

So get training, get on a course and get your National Beach Lifeguard Qualification ASAP. Please remember it is not just about acquiring the qualification - only the best as described above are even likely to be considered.

First Aid a Lifeguard Qualification ?

2009-11-14T11:38:00.009Z

Lifeguards Ireland pose this question? Why is the First Aid standard for Lifeguards not Occupational First Aid or the UK equivalent First Aid at Work. Should it not be a mandatory requirement for the NPLQ or NBLQ? In Ireland the OFA is the only statutory first aid qualification and is a level 5 Fetac award.

The role of a Lifeguard is a serious responsibility and it is almost a certainty that the provision of First Aid will be required in the fulfillment of ones duties. While recognising the excellent training and standards of the many voluntary and other bodies, surly the qualification should be the Health & Safety Authority standard. This would provide a recognised statutory qualification for Lifeguards and their employers. And in doing so offer afford a new confidence to the public at large.

Your comments please ?

Pool Lifeguard convicted after dad dies in swimming pool

2009-11-14T11:14:00.003Z

BIRMINGHAM MAIL 31 OCT 2009

A LIFEGUARD has been found guilty of failing to take care of swimmers on the day a dad died in a Midland swimming pool.
Alex Cotterill had been responsible for baths at the Walsall campus of Wolverhampton University when the body of father-of-three Adrian Miles was recovered. Mr Miles, 48, had been lying at the bottom of the pool for at least 25 minutes.
Cotterill, 28, of Penn, Wolverhampton, sat motionless as a jury at Wolverhampton Crown Court found him guilty of breaching a duty of work.

He will be sentenced at a later date.
end.

Comments :
I wonder what effect this will have on the recruitment and retention of Lifeguards at swimming pools and how will it effect local councils ability to keep swimming pools open. Whilst this incident is very tragic and action needs to be taken I wonder if prosecution is in the public interest.
25/10/2009 5:42 PM GMT on birminghammail.net

Hi, as a Safety Manager for a Leisure Trust I can see the recruitment issue but surely it is obvious that this is not only in the public interest but in the interest of employers also. Finally, Lifeguards must realise and take their duties seriously. The staff we do recruit will be the ones that fully understand their responsibility and that has to be good for the customers they supervise.
6/11/2009 11:47 AM GMT on birminghammail.net

Surf Coach Lifesaving

2009-08-06T18:47:00.003+01:00

Lifeguards Ireland would love to hear your views on the possible development of an Life Saving award suitable for Surf Coaches which would ensure that a standard of safety would apply to all Surf Coaches/Instructors.
One question that has been raised repeatedly is the time swim!! What do you thing is a good reflection of the fitness standard that should apply?

400m continuous swim in a pool in under 8 mins is the ILS standard.

Is it a fair comment to suggest that a Surf Coach should have the same swimming fitness as a Lifeguard? Some suggest this is not necessary but others take the view that the responsibility for surf students is similar to that of a Lifeguard. After all it is a 'Duty to Care'.

It is interesting that the RNLI require the same timed swim in under 7.30 minutes.
Your views please to me by email ??

Jack
Email : info@lifeguardsireland.com

Course Registeration and Late Candidates

2009-04-04T17:11:00.006+01:00

If you are a TA (Beach) reading this post then this is a gentle reminder that you need to register your course a least 10 working days (Don't include Saturdays or Sundays, Public or Bank Holidays) in advance on their proposed starting date.
Remember your course is not official until a course number has been issued. This is very important and late registration has all sorts of implications not least that of insurance. So...please take note. Also if you want me to post your course on the new 'Course Finder' section of Lifesavers then 10 days would be the very minimum necessary to do so. This service is in addition to the posting on 'Lifeguards Ireland' website.

I understand your position; in that you are waiting to the very last minute to consolidate the maximum number of candidates on your courses. However, I do think it is best that you put a definite closing date up on the website and stick to that!! Also please remember that once a course is registered you cannot add extra candidates to it - for the same reasons as stated above. NBLQ courses are rather different that that of a NPLQ in administration.

So, set a closing date at least 10 working days in advance of proposed start date and collect in your deposits. I think that we have all learned not to accept candidates without a substantial deposit. No, not even your cousin !!

Jack

Developing the Beach Lifeguard Programme

2009-04-04T16:44:00.003+01:00

With the ever increasing growth in the Beach Lifeguard programme there is now an urgent need to develop equipment available on courses. To run a successful course TAs should consider the following recommendations as minimum equipment -

4 x Rescue Tubes
4 x Little Annies
1 x Little Junior
1 x Little Baby
2 Laerdal face masks
Sterile cleaning product for manikins and masks etc
1 x Statutory First Aid Kit
1 x First Aid Training Kit
1 x Metronome (optional)
12 x Bright Coloured Swimming Hats
2 x Fox Whistles
1 x Set of Hand Held Signal Flags
1 x Set of Beach Marker Flags
1 x Malibu Surf Rescue Board
2 x Throw Bags
1 x Throw Rescue Rope

Now there is lots more that I know you can suggest to this list. So let's have it!And remember this is in addition to the 'Beach Lifeguard' book which new candidates will automatically receive on all courses registered through Lifeguards Ireland.

Now all TAs within the Lifeguards Ireland umbrella group have been signed off for the Malibu, paddle craft, surf modules and indeed let's not forget knots!!

So we need to plan courses to include a least the Malibu board especially where the candidates include experienced surfers. And let's face it we all can learn the knots, can't we? The surf module has proven to be a little more difficult as the logistics of same require a little more in the planning. However, the demand is there so I think it is time to make preparations for a course addressed at existing holders of the NBLQ and those that have proven surf experience.

Local Authorities (Co.Council) Beach Lifeguard Tests

2009-03-26T10:09:00.006Z

This is a summary of what you should expect if you have applied to work for a Local Authority (Co. Council).

IF YOU NEED FURTHER INFO CONTACT US.

ELEMENTS OF BEACH LIFEGUARD TEST

Water work

1. 75-meter approach with canbuoy (timed) followed by 75-meter carry (efficiency)

2. 25-meter head up approach, release and 25 meter carry (Method A)

3. 25-meter head up approach, release and 25 meter carry (Method B)

4. 25-meter head up approach, release and 25 meter carry (Method C)

5. Demonstrate deep-water resuscitation

6. Carry out systematic search of a designated area of the pool

(Water Work Section is Continuous)

7. Demonstrate Basic Lift Support and Aftercare, Adult and Infant

8. Theory on: Basic Lift Support, First Aid and General Lifeguard Duties and
Responsibilities.

9. Some Local Authorities will have different tests to cater for the varying conditions the Lifeguard will work in. e.g. rivers, lakes, piers surfing beaches etc

Recommended Lifeguard Equipment

2009-03-25T18:04:00.006Z

ILS have recommendations for both personal use and station equipment for Lifeguards, but remember these are only recommendations! You can download the two documents on our 'Documents Download' web page.

The next recommendation has to include a RWC!!

International Life Saving

2009-03-25T17:18:00.004Z

INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATION

Do you know that International Life Saving Federation is the world authority in the global effort to prevent drowning and regroups national life saving organisations/federations aiming at improving water safety, water rescue, lifesaving and lifeguarding and lifesaving sport. ILS is a non-political, non-religious, worldwide organisation.

Did you know that ILS has 'Equivalency Tables'for many of the awards/qualifications issued in its member organisations. ILS issues certificates to qualified persons who wish to be recognised internationally for their level of training.

ILS certificates do not represent a license that guarantees employment, but they do confirm that the holder of the certificate has successfully completed a course of training which meets minimum internationally recognised competencies developed by ILS.
Upon recommendation of the Education Committee, the ILS Board of Directors approved that owners of certificates issued by Full Member Lifesaving Federations can earn ILS Certificates. The tables are solely to be interpreted in one direction, from national certificate to ILS certificate.

Need more info? Well, email me.

Employment Beach Lifeguards Summer Season

2009-03-23T08:30:00.004Z

LIFEGUARD JOBS (Beach and Pool)

That time has arrived again. The Local Authorities are now recruiting for positions on the beaches throughout the country. It is now necessary to hold a beach award or a qualification. We naturally recommend that yoy hold the National Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NBLQ). You should check your local newspapers for adverts or contact the Water Safety Development Officer in the county or indeed counties that you hope to work in.

Most important check out the web site ' Local Government Jobs ' and search each county for notices of recruitment and remember to check back !! The web site link is http://www.localgovernmentjobs.ie/

Another good web site for POOL and LEISURE CENTRE jobs is http://www.jobs.ie/

Now back to beaches -

Firstly, you need to be making application to the Local Authority of your choice and indeed to a few others too, in case you don't get the one you want!! Most, if not all applications close around the end of March. Remember County Mayo comes highly recommended but then I am biased !!

Secondly, you need to be training for the water assessments and I really mean training. The tests are carried out by IWS on behalf of the Local Authorities. Remember the emphasis is on fitness and speed and it is against the clock and all held in a pool. The Life Support is the same as is taught by Lifesavers RLSS so hopefully it should not pose a great difficulty. Then you have the 'physical contact' rescues. While we in Lifesavers RLSS puts emphasis on non-contact rescues and the use of professional rescue equipment, you will be required to demonstrate your 'physical contact' lifesaving skills in this discipline.

Finally, if you get through all that you will be called for an interview by the Local Authority. Stress your professional training and discipline - that's what make you as a Lifesaver RLSS Beach Lifeguard special and different. All Local Authorities look for commitment and are impressed by appearance and presentation.

Good Luck !!

lifeguards

Assistant Beach Lifeguard

2009-03-16T16:00:00.007Z

This is an exciting award development in the whole area of lifeguarding. It will promote the wider programme and provide a launch pad for those aspiring to complete the full NBLQ. It still requires a high degree of fitness, swimming stamina and as much knowledge and theory on beach lifeguarding and includes Life Support 3. However, while the element of swimming against the clock is retained - it is probably not quite as demanding as the NBLQ.

This new award and the Emergency Outdoor Supervisor and the Rescue Paddle Craft (malibu board), which may in addition, carry the Surf endorsement, will go a long way to address the needs of the safety issues on our beaches and fill the need for additional qualifications/awards required by the industry. I hope too that other sporting bodies will recognise the potential of these awards and qualifications. Have a look at the syllabus on the 'Documents Download' page of our website.

The new Rescue Power Craft (RWC) qualification is also now available and I welcome it. The jet-ski is one of the greatest potential pieces of rescue equipment available to a Lifeguard. I have written about this in a previous blog. There is a real need for Lifeguards to take note of the issues involved to adopt jet-skis as their own and to encourage the regulation and safety of these craft.

Let's have your views!!

TA Membership and LS3

2009-03-16T14:41:00.008Z

INFORMATION NOTE TO ALL POOL AND BEACH TRAINER ASSESSORS

This blog seeks to address the confusion that seems to have arisen with regard to the requirements of holding a valid TA appointment and membership.

Membership is a continuous requirement. So if you have allowed it to lapse and seek to renew it, then it will be back dated, and does not start from your payment date. Bit like your car tax really !

You must be in proper membership at time of training or assessing. Proper membership is to the fee for the appropriate discipline/s to which you are training and assessing.

To operate as a TA in any discipline you must hold a valid and current LS3. This may be as part of a valid and current NPLQ or of a valid and current NBLQ. If you do not have either a NPLQ or a NBLQ then you, as a TA, must have a 'stand alone' LS3. So even though you may have paid your TA membership fee - it is dependent on a current LS3 as described here.

All awards and qualifications expire on the date printed on the card or certificate. If it is expired then it is expired - even if it is only 12 hours!! This is not difficult to understand.

To maintain your status in any particular discipline as a TA, it is necessary to attend the updates relevant to that discipline. Many of these updates are now done by 'distance updates'.

Notice of all updates and other requirements are clearly printed and flagged in your LIFEGUARD magazine. They are also published in 'LIFEGUARD LINKS' which is the quarterly newsletter of IQL IRELAND. You can subscribe to the newsletter by contacting IQL IRELAND.

Notice of these updates and other courses are also published the website of LIFEGUARDS IRELAND.

In addition, you should know that all back issues of 'LIFEGUARDS LINKS' to 2004 to date are available on-line on our 'Documents Download' page.

If you are not receiving your copy of the LIFEGUARD magazine then it is because of one of two reasons -
You are NOT in membership so they stop sending out anything to you.
River House have an incorrect postal address for you and it is being sent elsewhere.

It is up to YOU to maintain your qualifications and your appointment, reminders are not sent to you - please read all your documents and material carefully. Invalid return forms are simply returned and it is possible that candidates on such an invalid course may have a legal case against either or both, the Trainer and Assessor.

So now please check all your cards and certificates. Do you remember where they are ?

Any questions by email only please !!

Best Regards to Everyone
Jack

Hoping to come to Ireland and work as a LIFEGUARD ?

2009-03-10T09:52:00.005Z

Important Information you should know before you come to IRELAND

We have received numerous emails from all around the world seeking work as a Lifeguard here in Ireland. Getting a job on the beach or in a pool is not that easy !!Firstly, you will need to be a Citizen of the European Union to gain residence in Ireland and indeed there could be restrictions even within this category. If you are from outside the EU you will need a work permit. In both cases you should check with the Irish Embassy in your own country before even thinking of coming to Ireland.

The competition for positions on beaches is hotly contested and you will be required to successfully complete tests in water fitness, life saving skills and resuscitation before being even considered for a position. These tests usually take place around Easter time. Jobs are advertised in the local and national papers so you need to have access to these too!!

Employment is pools is somewhat similar and while your qualifications may be recognised that in itself is not a guarantee of employment. If you have qualifications, such as Surf Instructor, in addition to to that of a Lifeguard then opportunities do exist in Outdoor Leisure and Adventure Centres.

So...... our advice is firstly to check if you can enter and stay in the country legally. Secondly check websites and links for prospective jobs and the requirements and qualifications that may be required for any such position. If you want to work as a Beach Lifeguard then contact any on the maritime local authorities (County Councils) immediately for full details.Not easy is it ? lifeguards

New NBLQ and Surf Rescue

2009-02-03T12:14:00.004Z

Surf Lifeguard Malibu Board in your NBLQ

It's brilliant now to have both the new Beach Lifeguard Manual and the new NBLQ syllabus for the summer. But the inclusion of the additional specialist units is where it is really at !! The development of the surf rescue and malibu surf board are the main interests for me, but let's not forget the kayaks, advance fitness, spinal cord injury management (SCIM), Rescue Boat, AED/Oxygen and PWC.

So the next thing is to get the BLG-TAs up to speed and start to deliver the new units, well the surf rescue and malibu board !!

Talk to your BLG-TA and find out when he/she plans to do a new course.

Hoping to go to the USA ?

2009-01-10T08:35:00.001Z

Want to travel and work as a Lifeguard abroad ?

We have been asked where are the best job opportunities this year for Lifeguards. Is it in Australia ? Check out the web!! The USA is the place to be if you wish to work as a Lifeguard this summer. Check out the web. Jobs everywhere!! Money is not always great but the experience is wonderful !! The work is mainly in open water swimming pools and there is a real shortage of Lifeguards this year.

Your RLSS Lifeguard Qualifications are readily accepted. But a few points to remember before you book your ticket! Check out any potential employer, most especially if it is not a State body or organisation. Make sure they are reputable and know your rate of pay. Do you need a visa? Remember you may have to do a 'local' test in both the water and in Life Support. If sending off credentials in advance - send only copies, never the originals. Let us know how you get on by sending us an email info@lifeguardsireland.com or post a comment to this Blog.
And above all -

"In Sea or Pools - know the Rules,
Take Care, be Aware"

APPROVED SURF SCHOOLS

2007-06-28T15:17:00.002+01:00

SURF SCHOOLS AND APPROVAL SYSTEM
ISA Approved surf schools commit to operating under internationally recognised standards for the safe operation of surf schools to ensure that your experience of surfing is a safe and enjoyable one.
The ISA highly recommends using an ISA Approved surf school or club.

Life Support for NBLQ holders.

2006-09-09T15:32:00.000+01:00

So we now have the new 'Life Support' protocols for Beach Lifeguards and soon to be made available to holders of the NPLQ and to Lifesavers. What do you make of it? It is certainly easier to remember and to teach.

Do you understand the rationale behind the changes? Have you any comments ? Let me know.

Beautiful Weather !! Heatwave in Ireland!!

2006-07-05T17:07:00.000+01:00

So I take it all back!! After writing about the terrible weather in May I really have to say that it is a long time since I remember a summer like this. Long may it continue !! In Ireland we are living on the new European Riviera.

New Beach Lifeguard Syllabus

2006-07-05T16:55:00.000+01:00

Well the good news is that it is almost out !! All the new additional specialist modules and most especially the 'Surf Rescue' are now being rolled out. The new protocols in Life Support are also included. I would expect that all TA's in every discipline will shortly be updated in Life Support.

Check your post box and if you have not been receiving mail then I have two questions for you -

Is your membership paid up to date ?

Has River House got your current and correct address ?

If not, then get moving and don't be left behind.

Weather Forecast

2006-05-22T12:18:00.000+01:00

Is that not our most common topic in Ireland? I think we should re-define our climate category. Are we really a temperate maritime climate? It is so cold!! It is so wet !! It is so windy!! Moan....Moan ....... So what to do? I certainly don't see any signs of global warming. OK, so if the icebergs are melting is that why the ocean is so cold? An old friend of mine had a verse " cast not a clout till May is out". So what is the rest of the verse? What is the plan of action for June/July/Aug.

Anyway............. As is often said to end a conversation that one does not relish. On the positive side that grass is so green and the trees are really sweetly blooming. The swallows have returned and I am waiting patiently on the call of the Cuckoo. I would love to hear a corncrake. Just once. So if you heard a bird calling please let me know. Have need will travel!!

ISA Surf Seniors Success in Lifeguarding

2006-01-12T18:43:00.000Z

Congrats to Tom, KT, Andy, Pete and Rick on successful qualifying as National Beach Lifeguards. It was a great course with a 'serious' input from the lads. This is the first group to achieve the additional specialist module of " SURF LIFEGUARD". It is only right that this recognition should go in the first instance, to them. All are leaders in the surfing scene and in the Irish Surfing Association. Tom is the ISA Senior Coach and also runs his own surf school. He can be contacted in Strandhill, Co. Sligo at his surf shop - 'Perfect Day'. KT or Kevin runs his surf school out of Dungloe, Co. Donegal. It's called Doey Surf School. Andy can be contacted at Irish Surfing Association headquarters in Easkey, Co. Sligo. Pete is the 'main man' at Bundoran Surf Company operating his surf school and running his surf shop. Rick works along with Pete. If you are interested in learning how to surf or about surf them these are the guys. If you have young family wishing to get started surfing then go for it! Here are their their website links -

Check out the web link for details of APPROVED SURF SCHOOLS -

'Irish Surfing Association'

Remember to check out the safety advice specially written for surfers on the ISA website. You can download their safety leaflet.

" In sea or pools - know the rules,

Take Care and Be Aware "

lifeguards

Thanks for a great summer Lads!! JB

Jet-skis for Beach Lifeguards

2006-01-12T18:19:00.001Z

lifeguards

When I read about jet-skis in the newspapers it always seems to be bad press. Now I read that some Local Authorities are preparing to introduce by-laws to control their use on beaches. Well this makes sense as like many of you I have seen some crazy behavior on beaches where both swimmers and surfers are in the water. Not only can they present a danger to other water users but also to themselves. Accidents also happen, not necessary as a result of bad behavior, and sadly this has resulted in loss of life.

But having said that..... wehat about the positive side. I think that they could be a tremendous asset to Lifeguards. You can get out through the surf breaks with ease and go from point A to B in secs !! One Lifeguard could cover a zone more effectively and speedily. This system works well in Lanzarote. From the employers perspective it could be cost effective as it might mean less Lifeguards!

The introduction of proper training and a licensing system for the individual rider would be a good start. Limiting the age to which one can opertate a ski and enforced control of the 'renting out' of skis could also help.

We are all waiting (patiently!) on the introduction of the 'additional specialist modules' to the beach Lifeguard programme, especially surf rescue and advanced Lifeguard fitness. So come on RLSS - let's have a 'specialist' additional module to the National Beach Lifeguard Qualification to develop the skills of Lifeguards in the use of jet-skis!!.

Litter on Irish Beaches and in our Seas.

2006-01-12T18:19:00.000Z

I was reading a very interesting article last night - which I suppose shocked me! Not that I am sure that it was 100% correct in the detail but it sure made me think. So let me share some of the points that I picked up on and may'be some learned scientist out in cyberspace could put me right -

It is suggested that plastic is one of the big problems in the oceans of the world. It is so strong and does not break down easily. It's light so it floats and gets caught in boat propellers and nets. It is suggested that over 80% of marine pollution comes from the land.

Leatherback turtles found in Irish waters are known to mistake plastic bags for their favourite food which of course is jellyfish! Once in the animal's stomach the poor turtle slowly dies. Plastic six-pack rings get stuck around the necks of seabirds. So what about bio-degradable plastics? It seems that it needs sunlight to breakdown so when buried in landfills it lasts just as long as other plastics. Over 150 marine species in our waters are known and recorded to have become entangled with plastics.

Another fact to ponder. Is it true that radioactive chemicals in the seas will be there for the tens of thousands of years from now?

Consider what happens to our rubbish when left on our beaches or dumped at sea. This it seems, is how long it takes to breakdown in our waters -

Paper 2-4 months. Cigarette butts 0-12 years. Plastic wrappers and bags 10-20 years. Nylon Fabrics 30-40 years. Tin Cans 80-100 years. Plastic six-packs holders 450 years. Monofilament line and Styrofoam cups etc., non-bio-degradable so it will be there forever!!
It must be just scare tactics? Please someone tell me this cannot be true? If it is then I for one am pleased that the Minister introduced a levy on plastic carrier bags. I do hope that the new waste management programmes being introduced by Government and Local Authorities are supported, implimented and most of all enforced. It makes sewage pollution seem positively harmless!! So all you marine biologists and scientists give me the true facts about our seas and oceans. I like to hear what surfers have to say about pollution on our beaches and in our waters around Ireland. And another thing!! What is the foam that is blown up onto the beaches? Tell me about fertilisers washed into our rivers, streams and seas. What exactly does it do to our environment?? Answers please someone ....?

A Day at the Seaside 1956

2006-01-12T18:12:00.000Z

Would you believe ? This is a lot of memories !! Or is it a case of where are they now ?? Those days were really hot and the sun always shone. Honest! Warm Cidona and soggy sandy sandwiches. Clegs or 'pissmires' which brought up the most vicious lump, which you scratched until it bled. Were you brave enough to pick up a jellyfish on the beach? A 6d (penny) ice-cream between two wavers was a real treat but you had to eat it up quickly before it melted. Then you got the dreaded ice-cream headache .... but it was worth it! The sea was so refreshingly cool and we were so brave as we skipped through the foam and ebbing ripples.

Why can't I get support to run Lifesaving Classes ?

2005-06-27T20:19:00.000+01:00

In response to the email you sent out with clippings I would like to say that I hate to see a lonely neglected man so here I am!!
Reading about these stories from other countries funnily enough has drawn my attention to the current situation in Ireland. I myself am living in County Galway and am sad of hearing about deaths through drowning in the Corrib. I believe that there are a lot of young men out there between the ages of 20 to 28 committing suicide, indeed many choosing to drown themselves.

I live near a lake and in view of that and as I have two boys of my own that I would like to do something that would benefit the community and also create more awareness about the lake by running a swim /rookie camp on the lake.As a qualified Swimming Teacher, a Lifesaver and Pool Lifeguard Trainer I want to help make a contribution and increase water safety knowledge - without all the politics and stepping on anyone’s toes!! Every time I try to do something, as a RLSS Trainer Assessor, in this field I am passed on to the faceless ‘chairman’ and subsequently fobbed off - when all I want to do is help with safety in water. I have the skills but it seems that the ‘establishment’ does not want to know.

Hass anyone else come up against this problem and met this attitude?

Has any body done anything about it in Ireland I would be interested in talking to them...

Regards,Suzanne
You can email me at - info@connachtsafety.com

Click here for 'Photo Gallery'

2005-06-11T19:10:00.000+01:00

I found a satellite photograph of the storm which hit the Irish coast on the 11th. Jan. 2005. I have to say I have never seen anything like it on our weather charts before or since. Have a look - I have also posted it into the 'Photo Gallery'. It sure scared the s*** out of me !! Does anyone remember ' her ' name ?

So what is it like to lifeguard in Ireland? Is it the same as Hawaii? Ummm! So we have also added a photo of Dublin Lifeguards to the 'Photo Gallery'. We think it needs a caption and a description. Can you help? If you are one of the Lifeguards in the pic - then let us know.

Are there any Pool Life Guard Courses in Dublin ?

2005-04-05T18:19:00.000+01:00

Are there no Pool Lifeguard Courses anywhere in Dublin? We have contacted all the pools in our area. Nothing!! So what's up? Courses just simply don't exist. My friend and me are hoping to travel to the US to work this summer and need a lifeguard qualification. We are willing to travel within a reasonable distance of Dublin. Can you help ?
Eamonn. Dublin 15

Views on the Uses and Dangers of Jet-skis

2005-03-31T17:37:00.001+01:00

I recently read the article below on jet skis. My own view is that they would be an excellent for patrolling or as a rescue craft. Please read the article. It might be a little out of date but it offers an insight.

Jet-Skis
A recent review of coastal zone management co-ordinated by the DETR noted the need for legal provisions to keep up with developments (DETR 1999). The advent of jet-skis (also known as personal watercraft, or by their other trade names: wet-bikes, wave-runners, or sea-doos) would seem to be one such development. The fact that these 'one or two man' watercraft travel very fast (ie. over 65mph), can enter even the shallowest waters, and have little by way of launching requirements, make them worthy of special consideration.

Sales of jet-skis in Europe are unknown but in the USA the value of the industry is put at $1.4 billion and some 200,000 are sold there each year (Earth Island 1999). Their poor human-safety record has been recognised as a problem in Ireland for some time. I welcome comments.

'Save a Baby's Life'

2005-03-01T17:22:00.000Z

This two hour session will take place in the Tir Hugh Centre in Ballyshannon on 16/4/2005. If you are in any way involved with babies ........... the feeding, the caring or the making of, then no excuses!! Contact Rita at Tir Hugh or Martin on his mobile. I did this course a few years back and what struck me was the willingness of parents (yes, Daddies too) to learn and participate. Good on you both, Martin and Rita! So, now go back to our 'Courses' page for all the details. http://www.lifeguardsireland.com/courses.htm

St. Valentine's Day

2005-02-10T14:58:00.000Z

The day is fast approaching! God help us if we happened to forget the occasion. Life would really not be worth living. But I am not (no way) buying roses. Have you priced 12 roses !!! It is crazy. So, I found the perfect gift. It is a solid silver " Rolo" It is an exact replica of the real thing. You know the thing ............ do you love anyone enough to give them your last Rolo?
It comes in its own little presentation box at €49.99 and I had it engraved free. So you give her something of value with a real packet of Rolos and are you on a promise or what !!!
If you want to know where to get one send me an email info@lifeguardsireland.com But you better do it quickly.

Reviews of 'Lifesaver Ireland' and 'Lifeguard Links' newsletters

2005-01-20T22:59:00.000Z

Well ..... I am really impressed! These guys are really getting it together. Loads of information and keeping everyone in touch. Both are excellent newsletters and I like the different styles of the editors.The use of colour really sets if off. Very professional. It is a pity that the distribution is not wider. I know you can download the IQL IRELAND newsletter 'Lifeguard Links' on the Documents Download. But it is never the same as having your own paper copy. I hope that the 'Lifesaver Ireland' newsletter will also become available online. If you haven't got either copy I suppose you could contact IQL IRELAND for the one and the Lifesaving Co-ordinator for the other. Well you could plead. You will get their email addresses on the website.

Does anyone know are there any Newfoundland Dogs in Ireland ? Let me know. Never mind swimming with a dolphin - I want to swim with a Newfie!

Weather update.

2005-01-11T01:33:00.000Z

Tue. Morning. We have been waiting on the NW storm to hit the coast. HW is at 05.52 hrs. with a 4.5 metre tide. I checked the swell on the Marker Buoy M4 off Rossan Point and it steady at 3.1 metres. Wind speed gusting 34 knots. What is happening to our climate ? http://www.lifeguardsireland.com