American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Course

Certifications Included:

  • Lifeguarding
  • CPR/Professional with AED for Lifeguards
  • First Aid for Lifeguards
  • All are valid for 2 years after the issue date.

Requirements for Completion of the Lifeguard Certification Course:

  • Minimum age of 15
  • Swim 300 yards continuously- Combination of Breast Stroke and Front Crawl (freestyle)
  • Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs.
  • Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds:
      • Starting in the water, swim 20 yards.
      • Surface dive, feet first or head first, to a depth of 7 to 10 ft. to retrieve a 10-lb. object.
      • Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point with both hands holding the object.
      • Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.
  • Understand the value of behaving in a professional manner.
  • Learn how to identify behaviors of a swimmer, distressed swimmer, and an active or passive drowning victim.
  • Understand the components of an emergency action plan and how to activate it.
  • Understand the general procedures of an emergency occurring in the water or on land.
  • Demonstrate how to perform equipment-based rescues.
  • Learn how to provide first aid and how to care for breathing and cardiac emergencies.
  • Learn how to recognize and care for possible head, neck or back injuries.
  • Pass the final written exams with a minimum grade of 80 percent on each.