How to Design a Life Saving Swim Program
Swimming is a fun and healthy recreational sport. It is important that people know how to swim when around pools or water. There are always needs for more water life-saving instructors. How to design a life-saving swim program requires some training and effort. These efforts are well worth the lives that may be saved. Many community centers and training programs may assist in setting up life-saving swim programs.
- Get certified as a water life-saving instructor. You need to possess good swimming skills, and pass a water life-saving swim course. Courses are usually available at local YMCA’s or other community service programs.
- Call your local coast guard and inquire about specific regulations. They may be able to assist you in your endeavor.
- Inquire about how to get use of a pool from the program that trained you. Generally new instructors will be assisted the first several classes to complete the practical part of the competency test.
- Share your need of a pool and equipment with local schools, community pools and other private places that have a large enough pool. They may donate the pool or charge you for the use. Local community centers may rent or supply equipment.
- Set up a time for your program. Make sure that you have the use of a pool and supplies before you formalize your plans.
- Ask for volunteers. There may be strong swimmers or lifeguards who will assist you. You can ask at your local school if they have a swim team. Many swim team members will have their life-saving certification and may be willing to donate some time.
- Advertise your class far enough in advance to prepare. Use various methods such as local ads, postings on community bulletin boards and state any fees.
- Determine the number of students that you will have. There are usually specifications about how many students per teacher ratio allowances. Adjust class size based on the amount of certified instructors.