our Lifeguards
Our lakes and beaches are central to life in Highland Lakes, offering a place to relax, connect with neighbors and enjoy the beauty of our community. Whether you're swimming, kayaking, or just enjoying the view, these shared spaces are where summer memories are made. With so many residents and guests enjoying the water, maintaining a safe and welcoming environment is essential.
Each summer, our dedicated team of certified lifeguards plays a critical role in protecting beachgoers. Trained in lifesaving techniques, emergency response and water safety protocols, our guards are prepared to respond swiftly and effectively. Beyond their watchful presence, they help educate members about safe practices and uphold the rules that keep our beaches running smoothly. Their work ensures that everyone, from young children to longtime residents, can enjoy Highland Lakes’ natural resources with confidence.
apply to be a Lifeguard
Each season Highland Lakes seeks certified, responsible, and energetic lifeguards to ensure safety at our lakefront beaches.
Lifeguard Requirements:
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Pass the American Red Cross swim test.
- Have current lifeguard/CPR certifications
- Be available weekdays and weekends during our 80-day summer season.
How to Apply:
Step 1:
- Complete THIS APPLICATION and email to [email protected] BEFORE June 1.
- Complete the 2025 Lifeguard Availability and Interest Form
Step 2:
Register for your Lifeguard Certification/Recertification Course
- 2025 OFFSITE Lifeguard Certification/Recertification Courses
- 2025 HLCC Lifeguard Certification/Recertification Courses
- Course Registration Signup Due: June 10
- Course Date: June 20
- Fee: $100
- Deposit: $50 due June 10
lifeguard certification
To become a certified lifeguard, individuals must complete a lifeguard training course approved by the American Red Cross or a similar recognized organization. These courses typically include instruction in water rescues, CPR, first aid, AED use, and emergency response. Candidates must meet minimum age requirements—usually 15 or 16 years old, and pass a pre-course swimming skills test. Upon successful completion of the course and final exam, participants receive a certification valid for two years. Check with local training providers or community centers for upcoming courses and registration details.
lifeguard olympics
Each August lifeguards from the different beaches are paired into teams that compete against each other in various athletic/fun events. Held in the early evening at Beach One, this is one of the most popular spectator sports in Highland Lakes as families and friends gather to cheer on their beach. Some of the events include Rescue Board Races, Beach Volleyball, capture the flags, tugs of war, sand soccer, wacky relay race, and on and on. Lifeguards bring baked goods for sale and all proceeds are donated to the American Red Cross.
Learn to Swim
SWIM LESSONS are offered exclusively to children of all ages (members only). These lessons are conducted by a select team of Highland Lakes lifeguards, all of whom are certified Water Safety Instructors, ensuring a high standard of safety and expertise in teaching your child essential swimming skills.
Swimming Safety
- Always swim with a buddy; never swim alone.
- Read and obey all rules and posted signs.
- Swim in areas that are supervised by a lifeguard.
- Children or inexperienced swimmers should take extra precautions, such as wearing U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when around water.
- Watch out for the “dangerous too’s”- too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.
- Set water safety rules for your family based on swimming abilities (for example, inexperienced swimmers should stay in water less than chest deep).
- Be knowledgeable of the water environment you are in and its potential hazards, such as deep and shallow areas, currents, depth changes, obstructions, and where the entry and exit points are located. The more informed you are, the more aware you will be of hazards and safe practices.
- Know how to prevent, recognize and respond to emergencies.
- Use a feet-first entry when entering the water.
- Enter head-first only when the area is clearly marked for diving and has no obstructions.
- Do not mix alcohol with swimming, diving, or boating. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance and coordination, affects your swimming and diving skills, and reduces your body’s ability to stay warm.
- Know how to prevent, recognize and respond to emergencies.