The start of summer brings children out of their houses and into the swimming pool. Many prefer to spend leisure time at the beach. This makes being a lifeguard a suitable summer job for teenagers not to mention a well-paying one as well. It is a good opportunity to interact with children and elderly neighbors. However, the role of a lifeguard is one of great responsibility too because it involves saving lives in highly sensitive situations.
A lifeguard should fulfill the necessary physical and psychological requirements. One has to undergo training and obtain certification to qualify as a lifeguard. This includes being a strong swimmer, learning Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) techniques and completing the brick test, successfully. The brick test involves the use of diving bricks Lifeguarding.
What is a diving block? You can find out below. Also, get a brief introduction on the brick test.
Diving Bricks
A diving brick is a block of weight. The block is made of 100% solid molded rubber. It encapsulates a steel mass within. The rubber material offers great durability. It is soft and do not mark or damage the floor and walls of the swimming pool. Hence, it can be carefully set at the bottom or thrown from above. It is designed to meet TMCA and American Red Cross Standards. The diving ring also used in training is a sibling of the diving block.
Diving bricks are available in 2 sizes. There is an adult and a children’s size. The junior one for children is of a small size and lower weight. The standard weight is 10lb. A few vendors also sell a 20lb block. Black is the standard color; but there are colored versions for children.
Whether you plan to train at a private pool or run a lifeguard training institute, you can purchase a diving brick. If you manage a public swimming pool and offer swimming classes, you can buy this rescue training tool too. Pool weights are used in swimming lessons and when performing aquatic exercises. These pool weights can also used as part of aquatic games.
Where can you purchase diving bricks? There are several online vendors who specialize in lifeguard rescue equipment. In addition to this, you can buy a rescue training tool at a local sports store.
The Brick Test in Lifeguard Training
The first part of the test involves treading the water holding a 10lb block above your head for a minute or two. The second part includes fetching a block placed at the bottom of the pool (7-10 ft under the surface water). This is a timed activity. One is not allowed to use their hands in both the parts keeping in mind a real rescue situation where your hands will be preoccupied.
Often one asks why such weights are used in swim lessons. An ordinary swimmer has only his body weight to propel against the water current. However, a lifeguard who saves others lives has to swim with added weight. Weights such as a diving brick help train a lifeguard for this. It improves a swimmer’s diving ability and strengthens vertical balance in water.