PORT ARANSAS, Texas — The Port Aransas Surf Rescue trains their crew a bit differently than other lifeguard programs.
Surf Rescue Head Manager Joseph Farah said their program includes endurance training, EMS training and more that will ensure lifeguards are prepared to handle life-threatening situations.
"We like our people that come to our beach to feel safe and happy and when they feel safe, they have a much better time and come back to visit us in Port A," Farah said.
Entering his fifth season, Farah understands the responsibility a lifeguard has in protecting the community on the beach and in a pool.
"We're really predominant in getting our guards certified in as many things as possible and we're always pushing to get them higher and above any other expectations," he said.
Lifeguards in this program are certified under the United States Lifesaving Association. There are multiple requirements including an intensive swimming test.
"We are up to their standards, that's why we require a 500-meter swim in under 10 minutes," Farah said. "Also, all of our guards are EMR now, so we're at a higher medical certification."
After the swim test, trainees go through a two week rookie school and an Emergency Medical Responder certification training.
"Go more into depth on what you're doing it and why you're doing it," Farah said. "And also run over a lot of scenarios and make sure before you step onto our beach you are comfortable doing what you do."
After trainees pass their test and get certified as lifeguards, Port Aransas Community Pool Manager Adam Johnson said they continue to learn throughout the season.
"Every month we go through four hours of training," Johnson said. "We review all our rescues, CPR, choking, ongoing stop-the-bleed, so that they are always prepared and reintroducing this information, so they don't have to think about it when it's time to do it."
Both Johnson and Farah said their team is like a family that pushes you to do your best in and out of the water.
"I think ours is different because we're so tight-knit," Farah said. "We really focus on giving you the opportunity to excel. We push our people."
Port Aransas Surf Rescue is looking to recruit 10 more lifeguards with two training programs starting on May 13 and June 3. For more information, click here.