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Lifeguarding Experts to Develop First National GuidelinesThe American Red Cross, YMCA of the USA and the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) have formed a coalition to establish the first-ever national guidelines for lifeguards in controlled environments. The three organizations have aligned to pool their resources as experts in lifeguarding, water safety and aquatic education in order to formulate minimum standards for lifeguards. The coalition will conduct the most comprehensive review of aquatic scientific research to date and grade existing evidence to form the national guidelines.
"Developing the nation's first Guidelines developed purely from scientific research and analysis will have a tremendous effect on lifeguarding and water safety, and will improve the public's confidence in lifeguards," said Dr. David Markenson, chair, American Red Cross Advisory Council on First Aid and Safety. "Much like the 2005 National Guidelines for First Aid and CPR we've been hearing so much about, they will become a standard for aquatic education and water safety." Chief among the topics to be analyzed are lifeguard vigilance, a consensus of minimum education for lifeguards and standardized course curriculum, which covers scientifically proven interventions and procedures. The group will also look at setting minimum standards for lifeguards on things such as age, vision and physical competence. Another goal of the coalition is to develop a research agenda on lifeguarding to fill any existing gaps in the science to ensure the most effective lifeguarding and water rescue skills have been identified. |
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"There are many questions about best practices
in aquatic lifesaving, but few answers that can be stated with scientific
certainty," said Peter Wernicki, M.D., USLA medical advisor.
"We intend to change that."
The coalition will draw on the considerable strengths of its member organizations and other respected nonprofits, while soliciting the input and advice of experts worldwide. Among the participants already involved in the two-year process are the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Emergency Physicians, Boy Scouts of America, the National Recreation and Park Association, the U.S. Coast Guard and others.
The Red Cross, YMCA of the USA and USLA are the only United States members of the International Life Saving Federation, the worldwide recognized body of not-for-profit aquatic safety organizations. The group has worked on an informal basis since 2003 exploring standards for lifeguard training and vigilance. For more information about The United States Lifeguard Standards Coalition, visit www.lifeguardstandards.org. |
"The
only way to develop programs that are best for the public is for
our organizations-as aquatic safety leaders-to work together,"
said Kay Smiley, specialty consultant for aquatics and scuba, YMCA
of the USA. "Pooling our resources will ensure that, whether
you are out at a waterpark or the local public pool-the lifeguard
on duty has met a proven minimum standard for competency."
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For more information, contact your local American Red Cross chapter.
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