Becoming a lifeguard is challenging, rewarding, and lifesaving. Our American Red Cross–certified courses prepare participants to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies.
For new lifeguards
Certification: Lifeguarding, CPR/AED for Lifeguards, First Aid (valid for 2 years)
Course Overview
This hybrid course combines online learning with in-person classroom and pool training. Participants must complete all components to earn certification.
| Requirements | Hybrid Format | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Must be at least 15 years old by course completion | Approximately 7 hours of self-paced online coursework | $200 |
| Must pass the required pre-swim test | In-person sessions focus on skills, rescues, and scenarios | Incentives may be available for prospective YMCA employees |
| Must attend and participate in all sessions |
The swim test ensures participants can safely complete the course.
Swim Test Components
Jump into deep water, fully submerge, resurface, and swim 150 yards
2 minutes of treading water with hands out of the water
Immediately swim 50 additional yards and exit the pool without using steps or a ladder
(Goggles allowed; not timed)
Brick Test (Timed)
Swim 20 yards
Retrieve a 10-pound brick from approximately 7 feet of water
Swim back on your back without using hands to propel
Exit the pool without using steps or a ladder
Time limit: 1 minute, 40 seconds
(Goggles not allowed)
Refund Policy
Participants are strongly encouraged to complete the swim test prior to registration
If unable to pass, participants may retake the test or receive an 80% refund
No refunds are issued once the swim test has been completed and the participant leaves the class
For currently certified or recently expired lifeguards
Eligibility: Current certification or expired within the last 30 days
This review course refreshes lifeguard skills, rescue techniques, CPR/AED, and First Aid.
Requirements
Pre-registration required
Full attendance and participation required
Cost
$130
Incentives may be available for prospective YMCA employees
Designed for lifeguards working in lake or waterfront environments.
Swim and Skill Requirements
Swim 550 yards continuously
Tread water for 2 minutes using legs only
Complete a timed brick retrieval within 1 minute, 40 seconds
Retrieve three dive rings placed in 4–7 feet of water
Cost
$130
Incentives may be available for prospective YMCA employees
Sunday, February 15 | 2:00pm
(Participants must be certified or expired within 30 days.)
Cost: $275
March 27–29
April 24–26
June 5–7
Friday: 4:00–9:00pm
Saturday and Sunday: 9:00am–5:00pm
Register online or contact Kris Bolin for assistance.
.png)
.png)