June 17, 2009 Welcome to 'Surf Academy' Play video

(NECN: Amy Sinclair, Popham Beach, Maine) - On a hot summer day, it is easy to envy the job of a lifeguard. They spend a big part of their day sitting on a big chair in the sun, but as NECN's Amy Sinclair discovered, there is way more to the job than most vacationers realize.

Surf, sand and sunshine are an enticing combination. It's nice, but a lifeguard's job is harder than you think.

The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands created Surf Academy to make sure every lifeguard employed on a state beach is prepared for the rigors of the job.

At Surf Academy, seasoned guards share tips from real life rescues -- it's knowledge that could save a life.

Many of Maine's lifeguards are also responsible for monitoring water quality. If bacteria levels are high, swimmers might get sick.

They are also trained to talk to the public about clean beach practices, like cleaning up after dogs.

All they ask is that you heed their warnings. They know how to use their rescue boards, but they always hope they won't have to.