Water safety is important all year round. Although lifeguards primarily intervene during the summer at beaches, pools and various water activities, their importance is year-round. Especially in Brazil, where the warm climate favours swimming at any time of the year. They oversee safety and often risk their health to protect other people’s lives. The National Lifeguard Day, which is celebrated here on 28 December, was created in their honour.

Lifeguards are not people who hang out on the beach all day and keep an eye out for safety. In some coastal countries like Brazil, they are considered one of the most important professions. While it’s a cooler time of year in Europe and America, in Brazil millions of people are enjoying the height of summer, school holidays and lazing in the sand. The role of lifeguards, known here as salva-vidas, is so important. Brazil has a long and varied coastline that covers a large part of the country. The waters of the Atlantic Ocean can be treacherous and every second can be crucial to survival.

Lifeguards as part of the security system

In most Brazilian states, lifeguards undergo rigorous training and tend to be part of the military fire brigades. Their skills are therefore in line with the standards of the security forces. The training includes swimming tests, demanding physical and psychological tests. Brazilian lifeguards are thus valued not only in Brazil but also around the world.

The importance of the work of lifeguards

While it may seem that a lifeguard’s job is to rescue, it is primarily to prevent these crisis situations from happening in the first place. They are constantly on the beaches keeping an eye on what’s going on, and if they notice a potential threat, they intervene before it happens. During their working hours, they encounter many situations that require physical, mental and professional competence.

The job of lifeguards is not only to rescue, but also to navigate such situations. ━━ The job of lifeguards is not only to rescue, but also to navigate such situations. ( Source: lucato /  iStockphoto )

Why is December 28th so important in Brazil?

The Brazilian summer, which peaks in December, is beautiful and full of sun and fun, but it is also the riskiest time for lifeguards. Many tourists arrive at the beaches unaware of the local conditions, the strength of the ocean and often underestimate the intensity of the sun. In recognition of the work of lifeguards, National Lifeguard Day was created to spread awareness among the public. However, it is not an official holiday.

A system of colored flags serves as prevention and warning , informing about current swimming safety and dangerous currents. Currents are one of the most common reasons for drowning, as even skilled swimmers cannot fight their power.

Respect the Ocean and People Day

National Lifeguard Day is a reminder of how the ocean can be both beautiful and dangerous. It also highlights the vital work of lifeguards, whose duties are not fun but require the ability to face the threats and dangers that can befall people on the beach.