Ten More Lifeguards Join NCC Ranks
The Barbados Lifeguard Service is 10 men stronger after the successful completion of the 2010 training course by another batch of recruits.
The lifeguards, who were presented with their certificates during a ceremony at Browne's Beach last Saturday, brings the National Conservation Commission's (NCC) current lifeguard complement to 89.
In commenting on the recent graduates, Head of Department of the Barbados Lifeguard Service and Lifeguard Instructor/Trainer, Dave Bascombe, said having reached the required standard in the initial Lifeguard Service training course, the lifeguards had immediately been deployed at towers across the island.
"You need at least a minimum of three lifeguards per day at the 17 sites (towers) to allow for teamwork. If one [has to take a break], you would still have another two on duty. Any response must be a team response. You do not see the Barbados Fire Service, or the Ambulance Service or the Royal Barbados Police Force turning up by themselves. It is always a team," he emphasised.
Making it clear that this tranche of training was the first of many, Mr. Bascombe underlined: "Lifeguard Service training is continuous. Ongoing training is part of the International Lifeguard protocol."
The rigorous 12-week course held under the aegis of the Royal Lifesaving Society of Canada and the Inter-American Heart Foundation, included courses in Standard First Aid; Lifesaving Fitness; Heartsaver First Aid and Introduction to Aquatic Search and Rescue, among others.
The successful candidates were presented with certificates and special awards during the closing ceremony of the Operation "S.O.S." Summer Swimming Programme last weekend.
Laron Moore emerged top of the class copping the coveted Best Recruit Award, as well as the Iron Guard Award for excellence in physical fitness.
Ryan Smith received the Medic Award for excellence in CPR, First Aid and other paramedic skills, while Shastri Gibbons received the Watermanship Award for mastering all of the water skills.
The Most Improved Award was won by Jason Reid.
