How do i become a certified lifeguard?

Question

where do i go to get certified? What do i do to get certified? Is it easy to get certified?

Answer 1

There are several organizations which provide Lifeguard training and certification.  I'm going to assume you mean pool lifeguard and not surf/beach lifeguard?

Groups like the American Red Cross and Ellis & Associates provide training/certification.  Basic requirements are usually a minimum of 15 years old at the start of the class, the ability to swim 500 yards without stopping (crawl stroke and breastroke) and the ability to pick up a 10-pound weight from 9 feet deep water.  It is helpful if you have knowledge of sidestroke and elementary backstroke.  Various methods of surface diving.  And general experience and confidence in the water.

Classes run about 40-45 hours or so (minimum), about half in the water and half classroom.  Training normally includes CPR and First Aid, but some courses may have you take those certifications seperately.  You will learn personal safety skills, rescue techniques, and preventative lifeguarding (how to prevent accidents).  The class is moderately strenuous, but anyone in halfway decent shape and with fairly good swimming skills would not find it particularly difficult.

Call your local Red Cross Chapter, YMCA, Parks & Recreation Department or Swim Club to find out about classes.  Some facililties (like Water Parks) often offer free or reduced price training to people they are interested in hiring, so you might check places like that as well.

Lifeguarding is a great job.  Many communities have a chronic shortage of Lifeguards in the summer so it is usually fairly easy to find work.  Its a great job for a young person;  fun but serious too, with the chance to prevent people from injury and maybe even make a life-saving rescue.  Not many jobs out there give you the responsibility that a Lifeguard's position does.  Good luck!

Answer 2

Cataraft, your answer is dead on. In Canada, the process is almost exactly the same. (Though contacting your local rec. centre would probably give you the best information on training in your area)

However, you forgot one important thing; Life Guarding as a part-time job tends to pay pretty good! :P

Answer 3

If you live in england! you can do a pool and beach lifegaurd course! pretty intense! but if your a strong swimmer your sorted!!!

You can find out about any of your pool lifeguard courses at local pools cause they all are qualified to do so!

And beaches ask the local beach life grauds!! they are more than willing to explain anything!!