Becoming a lifeguard is not something you do just like that. All of our lifeguards hold an internationally recognized diploma, for which they have undergone intensive training. We do this not alone: we follow the national guidelines for water rescue, developed by the Dutch Lifeguard Brigade and recognized by the global umbrella organization ILS.
The training focuses on the tasks that our lifeguards perform: from monitoring, communication, to providing assistance during an incident. The training is divided into various diplomas:
Youth education
The youth training is divided into four different diplomas. Many young rescuers do this alongside lifesaving swimming in the pool.
The youth training covers theoretical elements such as the beach, the sea, tides, and the tasks of the lifeguard brigade. In practice, topics such as waves, currents, area knowledge, and basic first aid are addressed. In addition to the training on the beach, a first aid exercise is also conducted.
Lifeguard
Lifeguarding is the professional training program of the Dutch Lifeguard Brigade for becoming a lifeguard, focused on assistance in, on, and around water. Further specialization is possible through advanced courses.
The focus of this training is on the tasks lifeguards perform, including: monitoring, providing first aid, and rescuing drowning persons.
In addition to teaching practical (rescue) skills, the training also covers aspects such as: preparation, aftercare, teamwork, leadership, and communication.
Senior lifeguard
As a senior lifeguard, you supervise other lifeguards. When a lifeguard has gained experience, they can start the training to become a senior lifeguard.
The focus of this training is on managing other lifeguards, enabling the handling of multiple incidents simultaneously. Additionally, a senior lifeguard can take on the role of post commander, providing daily operational leadership to the entire team.
Driver
The training to become a lifeguard driver is a specialization following the lifeguard diploma. Drivers are trained to operate our off-road vehicles. Special skills such as driving on sand, transporting patients, and towing trailers are covered. After obtaining the diploma, the driver can also earn the certification for driving with flashing lights and siren.
Skipper boat
To properly operate a vessel, lifeguards are also trained to become skippers. Afterward, a lifeguard can perform a rescue on the water using one of our vessels. The training covers how to handle waves, currents, and how to carry out a rescue.
Skipper rescue jet ski
Our jet ski is a powerful and effective tool for performing rescues or patrolling in shallow waters. Therefore, the skippers (also called operators) undergo an extensive course.
Rider rescue jet ski
The crew member (rider) on the jet ski assists the skipper during a rescue or when launching the vessel. There are special procedures for this, which are the focus of the training to become a jet ski rider.
Instructor
To ensure the quality of our training, experienced members can follow the course to become an instructor. This allows them to become a certified instructor for the beach or pool. The training is provided in collaboration with the Dutch Lifeguard Brigade and NOC*NSF.
After obtaining the instructor diploma, members can also earn the diploma to become an assessor. With this diploma, they can evaluate exams at other Lifeguard Brigades.