Lifeguard Training
Here at the Y, we've been the nation's leader in all things swimming for over 100 years. And because of that, we offer renowned lifeguard training that prepares lifeguards in almost every kind of water environment, including prevention of hazards in an aquatic area and potential lifesaving skills.
Lifeguard Intro
The YMCA Lifeguard Certification course is designed to provide participants the knowledge and skills necessary to be a lifeguard and professional rescuer. The course covers safety skills, accident prevention, scanning, guarding techniques, emergency systems, rescue skills, first aid in aquatic environments, spinal injury management, open water dangers, legal responsibilities, pool maintenance basics and information on how to get a job as a lifeguard.
Looking for specific information? Use the links below to find what you're looking for.
Locations
- Offered at the following YMCA locations: Clark County, Floyd County, Norton Commons, Oldham County, and Southeast
Schedule
Please contact the branch for detailed scheduling and upcoming sessions.
Starting Price
Starting at $175 for facility members. Starting at $225 for program members. Prices may vary based on location.
Age Range
You must be 16 years old by the last day of the scheduled course.
The Y is for everyone. If you're looking for financial help, we offer affordable membership and program rates based on household income. Please stop by the branch or give us a call to discuss whether you are eligible for assistance.
At a Glance
The YMCA Lifeguard Certification course is designed to provide participants the knowledge and skills necessary to be a lifeguard and professional rescuer. The course covers safety skills, accident prevention, scanning, guarding techniques, emergency systems, rescue skills, first aid in aquatic environments, spinal injury management, open water dangers, legal responsibilities, pool maintenance basics and information on how to get a job as a lifeguard.
In addition to the YMCA Lifeguard Certification, participants will also be certified in the American Safety and Health Institute’s (ASHI) courses: CPR Pro (BLS) for the Professional Rescuer, Basic First Aid for the Community and Emergency Oxygen Administration.
The YMCA hires lifeguards all year long. We offer competitive pay, a free Community-Wide YMCA membership and the opportunity for a full refund of the lifeguard course certification fees.
Are there prerequisites for lifeguard training?
Are there prerequisites for lifeguard training?
Candidates must pass the following physical competency (conducted on the first day):
- Tread water for 2 minutes
- Swim 100 yards front crawl
- 250 yard endurance swim: 50 yards each of front crawl with head up, sidestroke, breaststroke, breaststroke with head up, elementary backstroke kick with hands on the chest
- Perform a feet-first surface dive and then swim underwater for 15 feet
- Sprint 60 feet, perform an arm-over-arm surface dive to retrieve an object, tread water for 1 minute, return object to the bottom of the pool, hoist yourself out of the pool without using ladder or other assistance, and immediately begin CPR compressions for 1 minute or 100 compressions.
- Stand and listen to directions from the instructor
What if candidates are not yet 16 years old?
What if candidates are not yet 16 years old?
Candidates must be 16 years of age by the last day of the scheduled course.
An orientation for all students under the age of 18 and their parents will be held the first day of class. This will include both classroom and pool work, so please bring your swimsuit and a towel. Goggles are permitted.
What are the rules around attendance? What if I need to miss a day?
What are the rules around attendance? What if I need to miss a day?
100 percent attendance is non-negotiable. Each class will consist of classroom and pool activities.
Is it possible to not pass the course?
Is it possible to not pass the course?
The YMCA lifeguard instructor reserves the right to refuse certification due to participant’s skill or maturity level.
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