deep water Spinal rescueA rescue that assumes a victim has a head, neck, or spinal injury and uses more appropriate measures to ensure that no unnecessary movement creates further harm to the victim. There are variations for both shallow and deep water. Prerequisites Most lifeguard certification companies require potential lifeguards to demonstrate strong swimming skills prior to the certification process. These prerequisites will usually include a mid-distance swim, a timed water tread, and diving for a weighted brick at the bottom of the pool. Ongoing Trainings Many aquatic facilities will have their lifeguards undergo additional training for the duration of their certification. The nature and frequency of these additional training depends on the aquatic facility and the certification company the aquatic facility follows. For example, a beach facility may practice beachfront saves and search-and-rescue scenarios, where an indoor pool facility whose lifeguards are responsible for the whole building may practice scenarios that simulate emergencies in different parts of the building. These in-service trainings are meant to serve as practice in order to maintain and develop skills taught during the certification process. Examples of these trainings include First Aid/CPR/AED skill review and Aquatic Emergency Action Plan Drills. Additionally, some certification companies outside of the facility may audit or examine lifeguards during their rotations. These visits are meant to serve as both a test of preparedness and also as a learning experience and a chance to improve on weaker skills. Visits are generally unannounced and may include videoing of on-duty lifeguards, skills evaluations involving a scenario meant to model real life, and vigilance awareness testing. Lifeguards also must be recertified regularly, as lifeguard certifications expire after some time. Water entries There are four main types of water entries slide-in entry: Slide-in is the slowest of the four entries. This technique is used when a victim has a suspected head, neck, or spinal injury. Stride jump should only be used in water depth of five feet or more and the lifeguard should be no higher than three feet above ground. Compact jump can be used from the side of the pool or from the lifeguard chair. The pool depth should be at least five feet if jumping from an elevated position. Run-and-swim is used in shallow waters that go from zero-depth to at least three feet. These entries are used in different scenarios depending on if the victim is passive, or conscious, whether