
photo courtesy of the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Department
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, beneath the sunny fun at Graydon Pool, the Village of Ridgewood’s 52 certified waterfront lifeguards stand as vigilant public safety professionals, ensuring residents and visitors can safely enjoy their time at the pool.
Rigorous Certification and Training
Most lifeguards at Graydon Pool begin their journey with a two-year Basic Lifeguarding Certification, earned after a demanding 27-hour program. To serve at Graydon, they must also complete a six-hour Waterfront Bridging Course, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle emergencies in non-surf, open-water areas.
In addition to these certifications, guards must pass a challenging prerequisite test. This includes swimming 550 yards in open water using the front crawl or breaststroke, treading water for two minutes using only their legs, and retrieving a submerged 10-pound object.
Daily Drills and Responsibilities
The training doesn’t stop once lifeguards are certified. Each day, before Graydon Pool opens, the lifeguards run through a series of drills. These include CPR practice, missing-child drills, diving exercises, search and rescue operations, quick-reaction drills, and cardiovascular workouts like running and swimming. Additionally, lifeguards are responsible for providing first aid and ensuring guests adhere to pool rules.
“We may get upset when a lifeguard blows a whistle or tells us to stop what we are doing, but we forget that they are doing so to keep everyone safe,” said Nancy Bigos, director of Ridgewood Parks and Recreation. “The best lifeguards are those who prevent accidents from happening, not just react when they do. So if you see a Graydon lifeguard this week – or anytime during the summer – please show that you acknowledge their dedication, training, and hard work with a simple smile or thank you. It means a lot!”
International Lifeguard Appreciation Day
In 2020, Ellis & Associates, an organization focused on aquatic safety and risk management, established International Lifeguard Appreciation Day on July 31. This day aims to increase awareness of the crucial role lifeguards play in ensuring the safety of swimming facilities for guests.
As we enjoy the warm weather and the cool waters of Graydon Pool, let’s not forget the dedicated lifeguards who make it all possible. A simple gesture of gratitude can go a long way in recognizing their hard work and commitment to keeping everyone safe.
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I didn’t get the notice… are we still hating on Graydon or do we like it this year?
Please let me know so I know what to think and post on social media
Excellent group photo. When is the rookie test?