Aquatics Lowers Standards for Lifeguarding at Barton Springs Pool

Today, Aquatics lowered the standards for working as an Open Water Lifeguard at Barton Springs Pool. The previous standards included being at least 17 years old and being able to pass a 200m swim test in under 3 minutes and 30 seconds. The new standards include being at least 16 years old and being able to pass a 200m swim test in under 4 minutes.

The complete new requirements are:

-Must be at least 16 years of age -1 prior season of lifeguard experience (can substitute 10 shallow guard shifts as an evaluation period instead of prior experience) -Must currently hold the Starguard Elite Waterfront and Emergency Oxygen Certifications -Complete a 200m swim in under 4 minutes -Run and swim drill in under 45 seconds -2 minute tread with 10lb brick -Sam doll retrieval from the diving well -Zone response Sam test in under 30 seconds