Chief Lifeguard – Italian Swimming Federation

In this chapter of my #WorkExperience and #Education, I share how I earned my surf-lifeguard license from the Italian Swimming Federation and led lifeguard teams as Chief Lifeguard from summer 2011 to 2018.

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Table of contents

1. Italian Swimming Federation;

2. Swimming pool Chief Lifeguard;

3. Facilities.

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ITALIAN SWIMMING FEDERATION (FIN)

Logo of the Italian Swimming Federation – Rescue Department.

In 2011, I obtained my professional surf-lifeguard license through the Italian Swimming Federation (FIN) and have regularly passed the refresher exams every three years since.

Being a surf-lifeguard means mastering rescue techniques for emergencies in both open water and swimming pool environments — from lifesaving maneuvers to first aid and BLS.

Founded in 1899 as the Rari Nantes Federation, FIN officially became the Italian Swimming Federation in 1928 when it joined CONI (the Italian National Olympic Committee). Today, FIN promotes, regulates, and develops aquatic sports nationally and internationally.

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SWIMMING POOL CHIEF LIFEGUARD

Alberto Carniel, Italian surf-lifeguard, leaning against a wooden rescue station by the sea.

My journey as a lifeguard began in June 2011.

After just one season, I was promoted to Chief Lifeguard, a position I held across two busy swimming pool facilities until 2016.

In 2018, I returned to duty at Union Lido, the largest campsite in Europe, working both at sea and in its massive water park.

What Being a Chief Lifeguard Involves

The Chief Lifeguard is responsible for both the lifeguard team and the overall safety and efficiency of the pool facility.

The role combines leadership, operations, and client service.

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Skills Acquired

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Team LeadershipManaged scheduling, coordinated lifeguards, and ensured operational readiness.

🧽 Operational MaintenancePerformed daily pool checks and cleaning routines to maintain hygiene and functionality.

📊 Resource OptimizationHelped reduce overhead costs by efficiently managing staff shifts and operations.

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FACILITIES

Surf-lifeguard Alberto Carniel walking on the beach with red tank top and rescue buoy.

🏊 Villa Ferri Beach

A facility hosting up to 3,000 guests, with:

• A 25-meter semi-Olympic pool

• A shallow leisure pool for sunbathing and cooling off

• Three small octagonal pools of varying depths for children

🌿 Barchessa In Bloom

A luxury event venue with capacity for 4,000 guests, featuring:

• A dual-depth pool

• A lush park and historical colonnade

• Services like a poolside bar, gourmet restaurant, and paintball field

🌊 Union Lido

A 5-star campsite founded in 1955, welcoming 1.2 million+ visitors per season.

• 1 km of private beach along Cavallino’s pristine coastline near Venice

• Lifeguard duties split between the sea and a large water park

• One of Europe’s highest-standard holiday resorts for safety and service

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💬 Want to improve safety and operations at your facility?

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