The American Red Cross Lifeguard Training course is open to strong swimmers who are at least 15 years old. It includes training and certification in Lifeguard skills, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, AED, Bloodborne Pathogens, Asthma Inhaler, Epinephrine Auto-Injector, and Emergency Oxygen Administration.

This is a blended learning course that combines online and in-person learning.  The online coursework will take approximately 6-8 hours, and the in-person training and testing will take approximately 27 hours.  All online work must be completed before the last in-person meeting.

All candidates must pass the pre-course testing, which will be conducted at the first meeting if it is not prearranged. If one is uncertain of one’s ability to complete the skills listed below, it is advised to arrange for an assessment PRIOR TO registering and paying at the YWCA Membership Desk. These assessments may be arranged with Aquatic Director Beth Raub by emailing [email protected]. No refunds will be offered after students are enrolled in the Red Cross Learning Center.

Prerequisite 1:  Combine a swim-tread-swim sequence without stopping to rest.

1. Jump into deep water and submerge yourself, then resurface. Then, swim 150 meters using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both. Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed.

2. Maintain position at the water’s surface for 2 minutes by treading water only using the legs.

3. Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or combination.

Prerequisite 2:  Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds.

a. Starting in the water, swim 20 yards.  The face may be in or out of the water.  Swim goggles are not allowed.

b. Surface dive, feet-first or head-first, to a depth of 7 to 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object.

c. Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point with both hands holding the object and keeping the face at or near the surface.  Candidates may not swim the distance underwater.

d. Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

In addition, candidates must attend all course meetings, score 80% or higher on the multiple-choice exams, and complete all in-water requirements.

This course is designed for professional rescuers, and professionalism is expected at all times.