Lifeguard Certification

YMCA Lifeguard Certification

If you’re 15 or older and looking for a great summer or year-round job that’s in high demand, the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training that the YMCA offers is the best place to start. Lifeguarding lets you work as part of a team to help people safely enjoy the water. You could even save a life!

We are excited to offer you American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Course which includes CPR for the Professional Rescuer (CPRO), first aid, equipment-based rescues for aquatic environments, accident prevention, and decision-making skills.

Must attend all classes in one session to receive certification.

2024 Lifeguard Certification Dates 

January 18 - 20

February 29 - March 2

March 28 - March 30

April 18 - 20

May 2- 4

May 30 - June 1

Each session will meet on Thursday and Friday from 5:00pm - 8:00pm and then on Saturdays from 8:00am - 4:00pm.

Spring Break Lifeguard Training

March 11 - 15

3:00 - 6:00pm

For all training sessions, the cost is $225 for members and $300 for community members along with the requirements listed underneath prerequisites below. After registration, download the following form by clicking on the button below and email to:

Paule Davis
Senior Director of Aquatics
Contact Paula at Aquatic@metroYMCAms.org

 

Lifeguard Certification Registration Form

 

Prerequisites:

  • Required to register
    • Online by clicking here or scrolling to the menu below
    • In-person at any YMCA Branch
  • Must fill out and submit the registration form above
  • Must be 15 years or older by the last day of Lifeguard Certification class
  • Able to tread water for 2 minutes using only your legs
  • Swim continuously the 300-yd using front crawl and /or breaststroke
  • From a deck start, swim to and pick up a 10-pound brick off the bottom of the pool and return with two hands on the brick and exit water within 1 minute and 30 seconds.
  • Complete all eLearning modules and final exam prior to the 1st face to face class meeting and must show evidence prior to first class meeting

To receive a lifeguard certification a candidate must:

  • Attend 100% of all classes in one session
  • Arrive on time for all classes
  • Participate 100% in all classes
  • Pass written and skills test
  • Demonstrate maturity, respect, and responsibility regardless of passing written and skill test
  • Candidates unable to perform all the skills necessary to receive certification by the last day of the class will be granted 48 hours to schedule a retest with the instructor

Learning is fun and easy! Through videos, group discussion and hands-on practice, you’ll learn:

  • Rescue skills for use in the water and on land
  • First aid and professional rescuer CPR/AED training to help you prepare for any emergency
  • Professional lifeguard responsibilities
  • Surveillance skills to help you recognize and prevent injuries

 

Recertification Process

If you're looking to recertify your lifeguard certificate, then you can do so at the Y!

1) Register using the program menu below or clicking here. 

2) Fill out the form listed above for the lifeguard certification and plan to come on the last of the certification training (usually Saturday). Email the form to Paula Davis at Aquatic@metroYMCAms.org.

3) If you have less than a year of a lapse, then you will: 

  • Undergo the 300 yard swim, 2 min. leg tread, and timed brick retrieval
  • Review physical skills on water entries, water rescues, final timed scenario and CPR/AED skills
  • Retake and pass the paper test

4) If you have more of a year of lapse, then you will:

  • Complete all eLearning modules and final exam prior to coming in person
  • Undergo the 300 yard swim, 2 min. leg tread, and timed brick retrieval
  • Review physical skills on water entries, water rescues, final timed scenario and CPR/AED skills
  • Retake and pass the paper test

 

Select the type of program you’re looking for from our menu below: