“After getting the role, I completed training for my Pool Lifeguard Practicing Certificate (PLPC). This was a couple of days training, in the pool and out, and I already held a current first aid certificate,” says Emma.
Fran says being a lifeguard wasn’t part of her original plans but is glad she took a chance on it.
“It’s a career path I never anticipated for myself. I started out part time and learnt quickly there is so much to the role,” she says.
“Pools are a fun and dynamic environment and working as a lifeguard is fulfilling.
“For the Duty Manager role, I hold a PLPC, higher level first aid like Resus level 3 and PHEC (pre-hospital emergency care), technical training for pool operations, leadership training and on-the-ground experience managing shifts and the facility.”
If you're looking for a fun environment where people come first - and you want to make a positive difference to people's lives, then we want to hear from you. Check out our lifeguard job listing on our careers website.
Thankfully, when someone finds themselves overwhelmed or in trouble in the water, our qualified lifeguards are more than capable of helping in stressful and worrying circumstances.
Fran says she has seen some serious incidents.
“I have provided major first aid to a swimmer. She was in the deep end of a pool and had a heart attack in the water. I performed the initial rescue, got her out of the pool. At some points she lost consciousness, it was very scary. Emergency services arrived, and she made a full recovery!”
Emma is looking forward to taking the next step in her career.
“I am going to be a Duty Manager at Thorndon Pool over summer, which is an awesome opportunity and will be a great change of pace, and I’m really looking forward to it.”