Lifeguarding is a surprisingly tough job. That girl in the lifeguard chair is not having as great a time in the sun as you would think. It requires focus, concentration, and the ability to save people’s lives. Everyday, lifeguards have to deal with frustrating and annoying customers.

1. I can see that little kid trying to sneak into the hot tub.

Do not test me.

2. IT IS CLEARLY RAINING.

WHY ARE YOU OUT HERE SWIMMING?!? YOU LITERALLY CAN’T SEE ANYTHING AND IT’S FREEZING!!!

3. No, you cannot touch my lifeguard tube.

Emphasis on "my."

4. I will become such a b***h with my whistle if I’m having a bad day.

Oh, you’re dipping your feet in the pool while it’s rest period? NOPE; today is not my day, so you can’t.

5. Stop running.

You will slip and fall, and I’m really not trying to leave the stand to go get you a band-aid.

6. Sir, your swim shorts are falling off and I can see the cheeks.

And I don’t mean the cheeks on your face.

7. Ma’am, no, you cannot come to the pool just wearing a towel.

Please wear appropriate attire….

8. Splash me again, I’m dying in this heat.

I’ll actually be kind of grateful.

9. I can see that guy staring at that group of girls.

I hope he tries to hit on them so I can watch what happens.

10. I’m definitely people-watching 24/7.

Ooh, that guy has a six pack — hello!

11. Aw, look at that couple.

Yes, I can see you making out. Please stop — it reminds me of how single I am.

12. Wow, look at all of these little kids.

They’re so cute. Oh… wait, never mind, they’re so annoying. I definitely don’t want kids later on!

Personally, lifeguarding has been a great experience. I have met a wide variety of people as well as learn important life skills. For those of you that are lifeguarding this summer, your work is valuable and no pool, water park, or other facility could operate without you. Lifeguards get a lot of “crap” for sitting in a chair all day doing nothing — people think that lifeguarding is extremely easy, but it is actually a difficult and very serious job. We do not sit in a chair all day doing nothing — lifeguards have to be alert 24/7. It’s essential that we are able to see everything that is going on and notice any life-threatening situations within 10 seconds; it's also essential that we get to the situation within 20 seconds, making it an overall 30 seconds to spot and save a victim. Looking away from your zone for even just 15 seconds could allow anyone to slip under the water and drown while you aren’t looking. As we guard, we must stand, walk, or sit in the sun for hours at a time. We are required to act quickly, to communicate with our guests, and to take care of any problems that may arise such as a lost child, a drowning, or a panic attack. We have to be able to direct guests and protect them from any harm. Our job is to make sure that guests are happy, and most importantly, safe.