Lifeguard Training

American Red Cross Lifeguard Training

Taught to the standards of the American Red Cross, this course is designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills to be a lifeguard through online training, in-water and classroom skills practice. The online portion of this course is 7 hours in length and MUST be completed prior to the first scheduled meeting date. Participants should bring a swimming suit to each scheduled class date. Books are included in the fee.

To successfully pass this course, you must pass practical and written exams with a grade of 80% or better. Upon completion of this course, students will receive a 2-year certification that includes American Red Cross Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer. Completion of the online coursework alone does not certify you as a lifeguard. 

Lifeguard Certification Course

Prerequisites: Participants must be at least 15 years old, able to swim 200 yards continuously, tread water for 2 minutes (legs only), surface dive to a 9-foot depth and carry a 10-pound weight 20 yards.

Training Details: Online coursework prior to classroom, prerequisite swim skill test, classroom hours with written test, & water training skills

Age:  15+
Upcoming Course Dates:

• August 12th- 15th, 2026
• October 16th- 18th, 2026
• December 11th- 13th, 2026

Fee: $125.00

*If hired on by SWC YMCA, fees can be reduced and reimbursed.

Upon the successful completion of the written and practical tests, participants will be certified in the following:

• Lifeguard Training | 2-Year Certification
• First Aid | 2-Year Certification
• CPR for Pro Rescuer | 2-Year Certification

*EVERY SESSION MUST BE ATTENDED IN FULL! NO EXCEPTIONS.

CPR Course

AGE: 15+
UPCOMING DATES:

• Recertification course: August 28th
• Full CPR certification course: September 25th
• Recertification course: October 23rd, 2026
• Full CPR certification course: November 20th, 2026
• Recertification course: December 18th, 2026
• Full CPR certification course: January 22nd, 2027
• Recertification course: February 26th, 2027

TIMES: Recertification 12-3pm | Full CPR course 12-5pm
FEE: $65.00

Training Details: Online coursework prior to classroom and in person instruction.

For more information regarding Lifeguard training contact:
Ian Hess (715) 818-6014 or ihess@swcymca.org