It occurred to me as I was swimming this moring, that you may be interested to know that apparently having a life-guard on duty is optional in Sweden.  Or at least it is in Malmö.  The place where I used to swim in Malmö, a large public pool, always had several life guards watching the swimmers.  But where I swim now (not as often as I should), is a smaller pool at a club.  Occasionally a guard is in the room, but typically not.  I have also only rarely seen guards at beaches.  - For non-American readers: for a pool or beach in the US to not have a life guard on duty is rare. 
Anyway - just thought I would share.