Lifeguarding
Train to Save Lives
Become a certified lifeguard through comprehensive training in water safety, emergency response, and leadership—designed for teens and adults.
Lifeguard Training That Prepares You
Our American Red Cross–aligned certification programs equip lifeguards with the skills to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies. Build confidence, responsibility, and career-ready credentials.
Be the Reason Someone Feels Safe
Lifeguards protect lives every day. Whether you’re guarding a pool or preparing for a career in public service, this training lays the foundation for leadership and trust.
Red Cross–Aligned Certification
Taught by certified instructors, our lifeguard programs meet national standards for safety and preparedness. Courses include water rescues, CPR/AED, and First Aid.
Course Teaching Methods
Red Cross Lifeguarding classes employ a variety of methods to deliver consistent, high-quality instruction and accurate information. To help you learn new information, build correct psychomotor skills, and develop decision-making and problem-solving skills, a variety of interactive activities are integrated into the course.
Lifeguarding Manual
A comprehensive written guide of everything you need to know to be a successful lifeguard.
Instructional Videos
See what you’ve read in the manual in action. From rescue techniques to in-water demonstrations, you will see how skills are performed.
Skill Demonstrations
After reading about and watching each skill, it’s time to put your own skills to the test! Both in water and land based scenarios will be leveraged to make sure you are ready for every possible emergency.
Written & Practical Exams
The final step before certification. Put everything you’ve learned and practiced into play to prove that you have what it takes to be a professional lifeguard.
Prepare with Private Lessons
Let us match you with a certified lifeguard instructor to help you prepare your swim skills before entering a certification course! Private and semi-private sessions are available by request. Contact your local center or use the Contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Participants must be 15+ years old and able to swim 300 yards continuously, tread water, and complete a timed brick retrieval.
Lifeguard, CPR, and First Aid certifications are valid for two years. We also offer recertification options.
The course covers rescue techniques, spinal injury management, water scanning strategies, emergency procedures, and professionalism.
Many of our certified lifeguards are hired at local pools, camps, and centers. Visit our Contact or Volunteer to learn more.
