Spotting stress and preventing burnout

As a leader in an aquatic environment, ensuring your team's wellbeing is crucial for safety. Here's how to identify stress and support your lifeguards and instructors:

Signs of Stress in Aquatic Staff

Physical

• Frequent yawning or rubbing eyes

• Slow reaction times during drills

• Complaints of muscle tension or headaches

Mental

• Difficulty focusing during safety briefings

• Forgetfulness about pool rules or procedures

• Irritability with patrons or coworkers

Behavioral

• Showing up late for shifts

• Neglecting pool maintenance tasks

• Isolating from team during breaks

Fatigue Red Flags

• Glazed expression while on duty

• Delayed responses to whistle signals

• Slumped posture in lifeguard chair

Practical Ways to Support Your Team

1. Rotate positions regularly

• Swap lifeguards between active zones and calmer areas

• Alternate between teaching and monitoring duties

2. Encourage proper hydration and snacks

• Provide easy access to water stations

• Allow healthy snacks during longer shifts

3. Implement "mini-breaks"

• 5-minute stretch breaks every hour

• Brief mediations or breathing exercises between rotations

4. Foster open communication

• Check in one-on-one with staff weekly

• Create an anonymous suggestion box for concerns

5. Prioritize proper scheduling

• Avoid back-to-back opening and closing shifts

• Ensure adequate rest days between workweeks

6. Provide ongoing training

• Regular rescue skill refreshers to boost confidence

• Workshops on stress management techniques

7. Lead by example

• Take your own breaks as scheduled

• Demonstrate a calm demeanor during busy periods

8. Create a positive team culture

• Recognize good performance publicly

• Organize team-building activities outside work

Remember: A well-rested, supported team is your best defense against accidents. By spotting stress early and taking action, you create a safer environment for both staff and patrons.

Encourage your team to speak up if they're feeling overwhelmed. In aquatics, there's no shame in asking for help – it might just save a life.