What do lifeguards, lawn care workers, swim team coaches and camp counselors all have in common? These are all summer jobs that involve working outside. Each of these jobs share certain struggles since they take place in the sun. If you have ever worked a summer job outside then you will probably agree with some of these statements, and if you have not then you will be able to see what these people have to deal with on a regular basis at work.
1. All of the awkward tan lines.
Chances are, if you work outside during the summer, then you will be exposed to the sun for multiple hours a day; as a result you will get multiple awkward tan lines that probably won't go away until December. Whether they come from a swim suit, a tank top, a watch or even flip flops they are awkward and pretty noticeable. Some of my swim suit tan lines from lifeguarding never actually went away; they just faded a little.
2. Having a love hate relationship with sunscreen.
Yes, it protects your skin, but it can be a pain having to reapply it all of the time if you work somewhere that involves being in water or if you have the tendency to sweat it all off while outside. If you accidentally miss a spot then be prepared for an awkward sunburn that will probably turn into yet another awkward tan line. Also be prepared to go through multiple bottles of it because you will probably use a ton.
3. Wanting it to thunderstorm even when there is no chance of storms.
It is typically unsafe to work outside while it is storming, so even if your facility does not close you will probably get a nice little paid break since you are still technically on the clock. Most aquatic facilities are required to close for 30 minutes after the last lightning strike is seen or thunder is heard so these little paid breaks can last anywhere between 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on the storm and if your manager wants to stay open.
4. Those days when it just rains but there is no thunder or lightning.
During these days your facility will probably remain open, you will just have to work in the rain. The worst part of these kinds of days if you work somewhere that involves being in water then the water will probably be freezing, and some areas of your facility might actually overflow.
5. Heat and humidity.
Let's face it. It's summer and you are working outside. You will have to deal with heat and humidity. Some days can be pretty brutal. so it is always best to slowly get yourself used to it by spending some time outside before you actually start working. Always make sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks in water or AC to cool yourself off.
