To enroll in an American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Course, participants must:
•  Be at least 15 years old on or before the final day of the course.
•  Successfully complete the Lifeguard Precourse Skills Evaluation on the first day of class.
•  Complete approximately 6 hours of online coursework before attending the first in-person session.

Lifeguard Precourse Skills Evaluation
The prerequisite skills evaluation consists of two separate components.

1. Continuous Swim – Tread – Swim
This entire sequence must be completed without stopping to rest. Goggles are permitted for this portion only.

Swim 150 yards
•  Use either the front crawl (freestyle) or breaststroke.
•  Swimming on your back or side is not permitted.
•  Your face should remain in the water with rhythmic breathing throughout the swim.

Tread Water – 2 Minutes
•  Maintain your position using your legs only.
•  Your hands must remain in your armpits or completely out of the water for the entire 2 minutes.

Swim 50 yards
•  Continue swimming 50 yards using either the front crawl or breaststroke.
•  This completes a continuous 200-yard swim without rest.

2. Timed Object Retrieval
Goggles are not permitted during this evaluation.

You must:
1. Swim 20 yards.
2. Perform a surface dive to retrieve a 10-pound brick from a depth of 7–10 feet.
3. Return to the surface and swim 20 yards back to the starting point while holding the brick with both hands against your chest.
4. Keep your face at or near the surface so you can breathe.
5. Exit the pool without using a ladder or steps.
Time Limit: 1 minute, 40 seconds

Preparing for the Course
Success on the prerequisite skills evaluation requires both endurance and proper technique. Practice your front crawl, breaststroke, treading water using your legs only, and submerged object retrieval before the course begins. Arriving prepared will help you successfully complete the prerequisites and begin your lifeguard training with confidence.

The American Red Cross Lifeguarding course is designed to prepare you to respond confidently in aquatic emergencies. Success requires preparation, physical endurance, effective communication, and a commitment to learning.

To earn your certification, you must successfully complete three components:
•  Pass the prerequisite swim skills evaluation
•  Demonstrate proficiency in all in-water rescue, CPR/AED, and first aid skills
•  Pass the final written examination

Demonstrate Lifeguarding Skills
Throughout the course, instructors will evaluate your ability to perform lifeguarding skills safely, effectively, and confidently.

Communicate with Confidence
Strong communication is an essential part of being a lifeguard. During rescue scenarios:
•  Speak loudly and clearly.
•  Announce your actions and emergency procedures.
•  Demonstrate confidence and leadership while directing others.

Complete All Assigned Coursework
Before attending the in-person sessions:
•  Finish all required online blended learning modules.
•  Review the Lifeguarding Participant Manual.
•  Study the provided skills sheets and course materials.
Being prepared before class allows more time to focus on mastering hands-on skills.

3. Pass the Final Written Examination
The course concludes with a 50–60 question multiple-choice exam.
Passing Score: 80% or higher

Topics covered include:
•  Recognizing active and passive drowning victims
•  Emergency Action Plans (EAPs)
•  Surveillance and scanning responsibilities
•  CPR/AED procedures
•  First aid care
•  Ventilation and compression ratios for adults, children, and infants

Keys to Success
•  Arrive physically prepared and well rested.
•  Complete all online coursework before the first class.
•  Practice swimming and treading water before the course begins.
•  Ask questions whenever you need clarification.
•  Stay engaged and participate in every scenario.
•  Practice each skill until you can perform it confidently without coaching.
•  Remember that effective lifeguards remain calm, communicate clearly, and work as a team.

With preparation, practice, and a positive attitude, you’ll be well on your way to earning your American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification.

Being physically and mentally prepared is essential for success in the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course. Training includes both classroom instruction and extensive in-water practice, so plan to spend long periods both in and out of the pool.

Water & Swim Gear

Swimsuit
•  Women: One-piece swimsuit
•  Men: Jammers or swim trunks Goggles

Recommended for the prerequisite swim evaluation.
Please note: Goggles are not permitted during the timed 10-pound brick retrieval.

Towels
•  Bring 2–3 towels, as you will be entering and exiting the water multiple times throughout the day.

Pool Footwear
•  Flip-flops, sandals, or other slip-on shoes for walking on the pool deck.

Classroom & Personal Essentials

Warm Change of Clothes
•  Comfortable athletic clothing
•  Sweatshirt or light jacket
•  Training rooms are often cool, and you may become cold after water sessions.

Water Bottle
•  Stay hydrated throughout the course.

Lunch and Snacks
•  Bring a packed lunch and nutritious snacks to maintain your energy during the day.

Notebook and Pen
•  Helpful for taking notes on CPR, first aid, rescue procedures, and course review materials.

Photo Identification
•  Required for check-in on the first day of class.

Be Ready to Succeed
The American Red Cross Lifeguarding course is physically demanding and fast-paced. Arrive each day:
•  Well rested
•  Properly hydrated
•  Ready to participate
•  Prepared to spend significant time both in and out of the water

Coming prepared allows you to focus on learning the skills needed to become a confident and successful lifeguard.