You must pass a series of tests to become a Red Cross lifeguard, or more precisely, a Red Cross-certified lifeguard. A written test, a swimming test, and an emergency medical skills test are among the tests available. You’ll receive a Red Cross lifeguard certification after passing these tests. This certification allows you to work as a lifeguard in a variety of positions that accept Red Cross certification. You must also be at least 15 years old to work as a Red Cross lifeguard.
The potential lifeguard will be given training sessions. These sessions will teach you proper stroke technique, first aid, and other life-saving skills. It is necessary to attend all of the training sessions. Contact your local Red Cross branch for information on training fees and schedules.
One of the most important requirements for becoming a Red Cross lifeguard is the ability to swim. During the testing process, you’ll need to be able to swim breaststroke and freestyle, as well as have the endurance to swim for long distances. The swimming test consists of 300 yards (275 meters) of nonstop swimming, including 100 yards (91 meters) of front crawl, 100 yards (91 meters) of breaststroke, and another 100 yards (91 meters) of either freestyle or breaststroke.
You’ll need to demonstrate solid emergency medical skills in addition to swimming ability. You’ll be taught standard first aid, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and how to use an automated external defibrillator for this test (AED). Drills will be conducted both in and out of the water to put these skills to the test.
You must also complete a timed trial in order to become a Red Cross-certified lifeguard. The trial consists of swimming 50 yards (about 46 meters), surface dive 7 to 10 feet (about 2 to 3 meters), bring a ten pound (about 4.5 kg) weight to the surface, and swim back 50 yards (about 46 meters).
A written test will also be given to you. This test will assess your knowledge of a variety of lifeguarding rules. The written exam must be passed with an 80 percent or higher score.
The Red Cross lifeguard and first aid certifications are good for three years, but the CPR and AED certifications are only good for one year. Existing Red Cross lifeguards are welcome to attend training review sessions, but they are not required for recertification.