Lifeguarding is a fantastic profession for anyone with a passion for aquatics, public safety, and customer service! While lifeguarding is often portrayed as a laid-back job, it is a crucial component to the functionality and safety of an aquatic center. For this reason, becoming a lifeguard is an extensive process requiring significant qualifications and training.
Basic Qualifications
To complete a lifeguard certification, a candidate must be at least 15 years of age. There are a number of different agencies that issue lifeguard certification, but not all are created equally. PPATC partners with the American Red Cross as it is one of the most accredited and widely used curriculums. Be wary of certifications that do not offer in-water skills sessions as these courses may not be accepted by a potential employer.
Before enrolling in a lifeguard certification class, the candidate should have strong swimming abilities including freestyle, and breaststroke, and be physically fit to perform activities in the water, such as entering the water from an elevated surface or retrieving a heavy object from the bottom of a pool. Practice any pre-requisite skill requirements before the class to ensure you’re ready to successfully complete the course.
Completing The Class
The American Red Cross Blended Lifeguard Course consists of an extensive online training and two days of in-person skills practice and testing. In-person sessions are limited to a maximum of ten students per Lifeguard Instructor. You will learn water rescue skills, CPR, AED, First Aid, and all other valuable skills required to become a lifeguard. Expect to spend your entire weekend completing this course, there is a significant amount of information and skills for you to master in a quick two days! Once successfully passing the certification course, students are required to attend regular in-service trainings through their employer to practice skills and remain rescue-ready. PPATC regularly offers Lifeguard certification classes, get certified and start a new fun, and impactful career in lifeguarding!
Richie | Head Lifeguard at PPATC