Becoming a lifeguard in Bermuda
The Bermuda Lifeguard Service works to ensure the safety of swimmers on Horseshoe, John Smiths, Clearwater and Turtle Beaches. Lifeguards are posted when the beaches are open—from 1 May to 31 October on Horseshoe Beach and from 24 May to Labour Day on the other beaches.
The Bermuda Lifeguard Service maintains a roster of 12 full-time lifeguards and reserve staff.
Basic requirements to be a lifeguard
To be considered as a lifeguard, you must be:
- 16 years old or older;
- In good health;
- A strong swimmer
All applicants must complete a 500m swim in open water.
Following the swim test, the Bermuda Lifeguard Service will check your references and may invite you for an interview.
Lifeguard training and testing
Bermuda’s lifeguards train rigorously before patrolling the beaches.
Lifeguard training consists of:
- A 56-hour training course covering basic lifeguarding and rescue skills, plus CPR and first aid.
- Upon successful completion of the training course, trainees undergo a scenarios-assessment day to test their skills learned in a simulated emergency environment.
- Successful applicants must then pass five final assessment tests, including a written test, a resuscitation practical test, and three physical assessments, which consist of a run, a swim, and a paddleboard.
If necessary, there may be further interviews of applicants who have passed the training course before the final selections for employment.
Returning lifeguards must also pass a swim test, complete a 36-hour training course and pass the scenario and final assessment tests in order to requalify each year.
About the job
Full-time lifeguards work avariable five-day, 40hour week. The working day lasts from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. There is a lifeguard roster that rotates each week.
Reserve lifeguards must meet all the same prerequisite and training requirements and must pass the same assessment tests as full time lifeguards in order to qualify. Reserves work part time on weekends or when the service is understaffed, when someone is sick, absent or during shortages at the end of the season. The Department of Parks is seeking highly motivated individuals to join its team for its 2020 Lifeguard season from April – November.