Apply and get hired as a lifeguard prior to the certification course and the YMCA will pay for your certification!

Our facility offers Lifeguard Certifications throughout the year.

Certifying and hiring lifeguards

 

American Red Cross Shallow-Water Lifeguard Certification

Blended learning Lifeguard courses require an estimated 7 hours of online work to be completed prior to the in-class portion.

A physical pre-test will be given on the first day to ensure participants are able to complete the following:

  • Swim 100 yards continuously demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing. Candidates may swim using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both, but swimming on the back or side is not allowed. Swim goggles may be used.
  • Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs. Candidates should place their hands under their armpits.
  • Complete a timed event within 50 seconds
    • Starting in the water, swim 20 yards using the front crawl or breaststroke. The face may be in the water or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed.
    • Submerge to a depth of 4-5 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object. Return to the surface and walk or swim 20 yards to return to the starting point with both hands holding the object at the surface of the water.
    • Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.