Lifeguard Certification Course

The primary purpose of the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course is to provide entry-level lifeguard participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies and to provide professional-level care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden illnesses until emergency medical services (EMS) personnel take over. Successful completion results in a two-year certification in American Red Cross Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED.

There are no refunds once the course has been taught. This includes participants who do not successfully complete the course, those who do not attend all scheduled class dates and times, students who do not pass course land and water skills with proficiency (according to American Red Cross requirements), and those who do not pass the written exam. All courses held at Patti Johnson Wilson Center. Register at either location’s front desk, or online through the registration links below.

Cost: $225

Full cost due at registration. Students who do not pass the prerequisite skills test will be refunded $150 of the $225.

Lifeguard Certification Pre-Requisites

To enroll in the Lifeguarding course, participant must be at least 15 years old before the last scheduled class session. This course provides the essential training necessary to work as a professional lifeguard. Participants must attend all portions of the course to be eligible for certification.

Before beginning coursework, each participant is required to successfully complete the Prerequisite Skills Test:

• Swim 300 yards (front crawl & breast) continuously demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing
• Tread water for 2 minutes using legs only
• Working with a total time available of one minute, 40 seconds: Start in the water, swim 20 yards; then, surface dive 7-10 feet, retrieve a 10-pound object, return to the surface. Swim 20 yards back to the starting point with both hands holding the object, and exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

Lifeguard Recertification

Lifeguarding review classes are abbreviated Lifeguarding courses that briefly review course information and allow practice of skills and knowledge before testing. Current certification in Red Cross Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED is required to participate in the review course. Students who successfully complete this course will receive a certificate for Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED which is valid for 2 years.

There are no refunds once the course has been taught. This includes participants who do not successfully complete the course, those who do not attend all scheduled class dates and times, students who do not pass course land and water skills with proficiency (according to American Red Cross requirements), and those who do not pass the written exam. All courses held at Patti Johnson Wilson Center. Register at either location’s front desk, or online through the registration links below.