Are you ready to embark on a fulfilling journey as an American Red Cross certified lifeguard, offering flexible hours and meaningful work? The West Suburban YMCA presents the perfect opportunity for individuals seeking to join the lifeguarding profession. Whether you're starting a new career or looking for a part-time role with significant impact, lifeguarding could be the ideal fit for you. Please note, prerequisites must be completed at the Y before registering for the lifeguard training class.
Blended Learning Lifeguard Training Course Pre-Requisites:
Prerequisite 1: Jump in, submerge, resurface and swim 150 yards continuously, tread water for 2 minutes, and then swim 50 more yards. This is to be completed without a break. While swimming, you must keep your face in the water and demonstrate good breath control. You may swim using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both. Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed. When treading, you must use only your legs.
- Prerequisite 2: Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds. Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. Your face may be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed. Surface dive (head-first or feet-first) to a depth of 7 to 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object. Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on your back to return to the starting point, holding the object at the surface with both hands and keeping your face at or near the surface. Swimming the distance underwater is not permitted. Exit the water without using a ladder or the steps.
To receive certifications in Lifeguard Training, CPR/AED and First Aid:
- Must complete the required 7-hour online training PRIOR to the in-person skill sessions.
- Must complete and pass ALL practical portions of the course.
- Receive 80% of higher on each portion of the written exams.
