The Beach Safety and Security Unit (BSSU) in Antigua has marked a transformative step in its mission to safeguard the nations shores, achieving full autonomy in lifeguard training through a long-standing collaboration with Lifesaving Society.

Since its inception in 2003, the lifeguard training programme has steadily grown in scale and impact. Today, it celebrates a pivotal milestone: the certification of ten local instructors, including two qualified examiners, allowing Antigua to independently train and certify lifeguards for the first time in its history.

We have now moved from a mere 15 lifeguards or 15 persons within the base safety unit to well over 60-plus persons, said Elroy Daley, BSSU Manager, who emphasized the exponential growth since the programmes launch.

A Three-Year Vision Realized

The structured roadmap toward independence was set in motion in 2025 by Lifesaving Society. Patrick Dalmata, International Development Coordinator, explained the strategic framework:

In the first year, we delivered the training directly. In the second year, we introduced instructors and examiners to the lifesaving level, he said. The third yearthis yearmarked the handover of autonomy.

The rigorous training standards required participants to complete a 400-meter swim in under 10 minutes, as well as a run-swim-tow challenge running 100 meters, swimming 100 meters, and towing a victim 100 meters all within five minutes. These benchmarks ensure readiness for real-world rescue scenarios.

New Component: Swim Instruction Certification

A key development in 2025 has been the integration of swimming instruction into the programme. According to Lisa Adams, national trainer with Lifesaving Society,

We now have 10 certified swim instructors on the island that can take this programme and teach locals how to swim and be safe in, on, and around the water.

This aspect aims to prevent water-related accidents before they happen, addressing the need for early water safety education, especially in island communities where aquatic environments are integral to daily life.

Global Recognition, Local Impact

The certification is internationally recognized, allowing lifeguards to work not only across the Caribbean. With the hospitality and tourism sectors expanding rapidly, this milestone aligns with national needs.

A lot of hotels are coming onstream and they need lifeguards. Were ready, were prepared, and we can offer that with international certification, said Peter Slowe, one of the newly certified instructors.

Another new instructor, Mclean Lawrence, emphasized the broader mission:

Once someone knows that theyre capable of saving themselves from any water-related injuries... its a good thing.

Additional Points of Significance

• Youth engagement is an emerging focus, with plans to introduce junior lifeguard programmes in schools.

• The programme is exploring collaborations with cruise lines and resort operators to offer certified personnel for onboard and beachside water safety.

• A national lifeguard registry is being developed to track certifications, facilitate employment, and maintain training standards.

This milestone not only ensures the safety of Antiguas beaches but sets a precedent for regional leadership in aquatic safety training.

Author Bio

Avani James is a contributing writer for Kisean Joseph with a passion for public safety, youth development, and international community initiatives. With a focus on impactful stories across the Caribbean and beyond, Tamoor strives to spotlight grassroots efforts that make a difference.