International Lifeguard Appreciation Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Lifeguard Appreciation Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Lifeguard Appreciation Day is observed on July 31st.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Lifeguard Appreciation Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as fun facts you should know about International Lifeguard Appreciation Day.

📅 What day is International Lifeguard Appreciation Day 2024?

In 2024, International Lifeguard Appreciation Day is on Monday, July 31st. It is the 5th Monday in July; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all intriguing details and facts about July 31, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

International Lifeguard Appreciation Day is celebrated annually on July 31st. This special day is dedicated to recognizing and showing gratitude to the lifeguards who work diligently to keep pools and beaches safe for everyone. Lifeguards play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of swimmers by constantly monitoring and providing assistance when needed. They undergo rigorous training to prevent accidents and save lives. It is astonishing to learn that lifeguards save more than 10,000 people from drowning each year, which truly exemplifies their heroic efforts.

📜 International Lifeguard Appreciation Day History

Over a century ago, the lifeguard profession was created in response to the increasing number of deaths and injuries in swimming facilities. As swimming became a popular recreational activity in 19th century America, the incidents of drowning also rose in these facilities. To address this issue, resorts installed lifelines in their pools, but they were not easily accessible or visible in time. Subsequently, a rescue board was introduced, but it proved to be inadequate.

In an effort to minimize drownings, some cities hired police officers as rescue teams at aquatic facilities. However, this resulted in fewer officers being available where they were needed for law enforcement duties. As a solution, local authorities decided to recruit individuals with experience in water rescues, who eventually became known as lifeguards. In 1912, the Young Men’s Christian Association established a program to train lifeguards and reduce drowning incidents. Two years later, the American Red Cross Volunteer Lifesaving Corps was formed to teach swimmers how to perform CPR and save lives. These skilled swimmers were then placed as lifeguards in their communities.

Over time, tools for saving drowning victims were developed, including Pete Peterson’s rescue tube in 1935. Today, lifeguards are present at almost all beaches and recreational areas, working together to minimize drowning incidents and ensure the safety of swimmers.

✅ International Lifeguard Appreciation Day Facts

🔖 The leading cause of unintentional deaths
Drowning ranks as the third most common cause of accidental death worldwide.

🔖 It causes hundreds of thousands of deaths
Around 300,000 individuals lose their lives annually due to drowning across the globe.

🔖 It’s fast and silent
Drowning occurs with such speed that before a potential rescuer arrives, it is already too late.

👍 Why Is International Lifeguard Appreciation Day Important

All professions must be recognized. However, noble professions such as lifeguarding ought to be recognized.

When people feel valued at work, they tend to work more. Lifeguards are encouraged to give their utmost on International Lifeguard Appreciation Day.

The day allows lifeguards and visitors to aquatic facilities or beaches to become acquaintances. That, we believe, is truly unique.

🙂 How To Observe International Lifeguard Appreciation Day

⚡ Organize a party for them
If you have the means, consider hosting a small celebration to show appreciation for the lifeguards you are acquainted with. Extend an invitation to them and your colleagues to join in the festivities.

⚡ Show gratitude toward lifeguards
Show your appreciation for lifeguards who work at swimming pools or beaches by thanking them on this special occasion. They will surely appreciate your gratitude.

⚡ Give them a gift
One way to celebrate the day is by giving gifts to lifeguards, which is a great way to show appreciation and thankfulness.

📅 When is International Lifeguard Appreciation Day?

See all 🔗 July holidays, including 🔗 Appreciation and other 🔗 Careers holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about International Lifeguard Appreciation Day. So be sure to check back soon.