The beginning of summer brings the children out of their houses to the pool. Many prefer to spend free time on the beach. This makes being a lifeguard a suitable summer job for teenagers, not to mention that it is also well paid. It is a good opportunity to interact with children and older neighbors. However, the role of a lifeguard is also one of great responsibility because it involves saving lives in very sensitive situations.
A lifeguard must meet the necessary physical and psychological requirements. One has to undergo training and get certified to qualify as a lifeguard. This includes being a good swimmer, learning cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques, and successfully completing the brick test. The brick test involves the use of diving bricks.
What is a diving block? You can find out below. Also, get a brief introduction to the brick test.
diving bricks
A diving brick is a weight block. The block is made of 100% solid molded rubber. It encapsulates a mass of steel within it. The rubber material offers great durability. It is soft and does not mark or damage the floor and walls of the pool. Therefore, it can be carefully placed at the bottom or launched from above. It is designed to meet TMCA and American Red Cross standards. The diving ring that is also used in training is a brother of the diving block.
Diving bricks are available in 2 sizes. There are adult and child sizes. The junior for children is smaller in size and lighter in weight. Standard weight is 10 pounds. Some vendors also sell a 20 pound block. Black is the standard color; but there are colored versions for children.
Whether you plan to train in a private pool or run a lifeguard training institute, you can purchase a diving block. If you run a public pool and offer swimming lessons, you can also purchase this rescue training tool. Pool weights are used in swimming lessons and in water exercises. These pool weights can also be used as part of water games.
Where can you buy diving bricks? There are several providers online that specialize in lifeguard rescue equipment. In addition to this, you can purchase a rescue training tool from a local sports store.
The brick test in lifeguard training
The first part of the test involves stepping into the water holding a 10-pound block above your head for one to two minutes. The second part includes fetching a block placed at the bottom of the pool (7-10 feet below the surface of the water). This is a timed activity. Using hands on both sides is not allowed, considering a real rescue situation where your hands will be worried.
One often wonders why such weights are used in swimming lessons. An ordinary swimmer only has their body weight to propel themselves against the current of water. However, a lifeguard who saves the lives of others has to swim with extra weight. Weights, like a diving block, help train a lifeguard for this. It improves a swimmer’s diving ability and strengthens vertical balance in the water.
