Getting a Lifeguard Certification

In order to get a job as a lifeguard, you will first have to obtain a lifeguard certification. In fact, there are 3 areas of certifications that everyone needs to have. The first is a Lifeguarding certificate that proves you have passed the basic course. The second is proof of CPR/AED training and the third is first aid training. But first in order to be eligible for a lifeguard certification course, you must be at least 15 years old by the date of the last class.

It is not difficult to find certification classes which are offered through local colleges and aquatic facilities as well as the American Red Cross and the YMCA among many other national organizations. Many courses offer training in first aid and CPR as well so it is possible to get all 3 certificates in only 1 class.

To pass the class, students must complete a physical fitness test to prove that they can meet the demands of lifeguard duties. The tests can vary depending on your instructor or the organization but generally you will be required to swim for 300 yards doing both the front crawl and the breaststroke without stopping to rest. The other part of the test usually requires participants to dive for and retrieve a 10 lb weight at the bottom of the pool.

Before enrolling in a class, you should be aware that there are different certification types which each prepare students for a specific aquatic environment with its own unique challenges. For example, the American Red Cross has 4 different classes. The standard Lifeguarding class is for working at a normal pool.

The Water park Lifeguarding is needed to work at a water park and the Waterfront Lifeguarding course is for water environments like ponds, lakes, and rivers. The easiest of the 4 courses is for the Shallow Water Attendant certification which only qualifies you to work at a pool or body of water 4 feet deep or less.

Many other facilities offer similar classes but if you are dreaming of becoming a beach lifeguard, it is a little harder to find a course that specializes in this area because it is more demanding than the others. You will need to find a school that offers a course specifically in "surf" lifeguarding in order to be qualified to work at a beach.

While the lifeguard certification requirements are pretty standard across all areas of the country, it is helpful to know that there may be some state-specific requirements. To find out if the state you live in might be one with unique requirements, ask someone at the aquatic facility where you are thinking about taking your certification course. They will surely know the requirements and be able to give you more detailed information.

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What Are The Requirements To Start Lifeguard Training Program

All lifeguards undergo a standard lifeguard training program, typically put on by a local YMCA or other large pool. Some beaches that are more popular will also offer their own training programs for new lifeguards.

Once you decide to go through lifeguard training, most hiring pools will require you to pass two tests. The first test proves that you can even undergo training, and the second proves that you've passed adequately. Lifeguards literally save lives, so it's important that, if you want a job in this position, you are able to handle the requirements of the role. Children and adults swimming at our lakes, oceans, and community pools need you to protect them. Here are some of the requirements you'll need to pass in order to undergo lifeguard training:

First, you will need to be at least fifteen years old. If you're working at a wave-heavy beach or more established resort, you'll likely need to be 18. Very rarely will a lifeguard have to be 21. Next, you will need to have a filled out notice from a certified doctor stating that you have passed a physical. This is critical, as you must be in top health in order to be a quality lifeguard. This, just like for high school sports, will have to be proven every year with a new physical.

Third, you need to be able to swim. Not only must you be able to easily swim the length of the pool, but you need to do so with proper form and good leg kick. You cannot thrash around, instead you must prove that you are comfortable breathing in the water, and maintain good form throughout. Most pools will require you two swim two to four laps of the pool without stopping, using whatever swim stroke you prefer. There is often a time limit in order to pass this test.

Finally, you must be able to carry at least forty pounds while out of the water and walk the length of the pool. This is very important to that you are able to take care of swimmers who need you who might be bigger than you are.

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