Life guards and ski patrollers monitor recreational areas, such as lakes and ski runs. They rescue people and provide first aid when needed.

Lifeguards and ski patrollers share common tasks. Both look for ways to prevent accidents. They warn people about bad weather and unsafe areas.

Ski patrollers and lifeguards help people who are hurt and provide first aid when accidents happen. If people are seriously hurt, they contact emergency workers and may perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Those who work at ski resorts may teach skiing lessons and those who work at health clubs may teach swimming lessons.

They keep records of accidents that occur on their shifts. They also attend classes to keep their first aid skills up to date.

Lifeguards

Lifeguards keep watch from tower stations or elevated chairs. They watch for swimmers who look as if they may be drowning. They may use binoculars at lakes and beaches to see swimmers who are far away.

Lifeguards who work at lakes or beaches also warn people about strong currents or marine life that may cause injuries like jellyfish.

Lifeguards use the following to help with rescue attempts:

• Flotation devices
• Ropes
• Poles
• Wave runners

Lifeguards who work at public pools or health clubs may clean and refill swimming pools. They use water-testing kits to determine the chlorine content and pH value of the water. They may record the condition of the water and the chemicals they add.

Ski patrollers

Ski patrollers usually work at ski resorts. They maintain trails and set up signs to provide information. They also mark off trails that are not safe for the public.

Ski patrollers investigate ski accidents to determine the cause of the accident. They help injured skiers off the slopes and take them to first aid stations. They monitor ski lifts for signs of wear.

Some ski patrollers monitor snow for signs of avalanches. They may start avalanches when skiers are not around to reduce the chance of an avalanche when skiers are on the slopes.