esearch supports the following determinations:
• Individuals become less vigilant after only 15 minutes on surveillance duty; a significant reduction in alertness occurs after 30 minutes on the job.
• Mild exercise and sensory stimulation may improve attention, especially with low levels of arousal and stimuli.
• Breaks every 15 to 20 minutes and changes in activity should help maintain alertness.
• Staying cool when on duty, either by dipping into the water or using shade, may improve vigilance, particularly when the ambient temperature climbs above 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Drinking cold water also might help.
• Working in pairs may be a good idea, provided the lifeguards do not distract each other from surveillance.
An excellent and comprehensive review of the literature dealing with vigilance and its relevancy to lifeguarding can be found through the Poseidon Technologies Web site at www.poseidon-tech.com.
