Frequently Asked Questions
We answer some common questions about Lifeguarding.
Basic information about lifeguarding.
The minimum age is 15 years old on or before the last day of class. Certified lifeguards 15 years of age can only guard if they work with a supervising lifeguard. There is no maximum age and the class is great for retirees who want extra income. You will need to bring proof of your age to the training, which can be a driver’s license, state identification, birth certificate or passport.
To prepare work on laps of sidestroke, freestyle with your head up and aim towards being able to tread water with no hands. Try some push-ups on the pool gutters or deck for strength climbing out of the pool.
No. Most of the time a lifeguard will enter the water in other than a dive. Many times lifeguards need to enter extra carefully (in case of a spinal injury victim, for example). You will be taught all the methods of entry.
The Red Cross certification tests are multiple-choice. 80% is passing.
No. but you must swim demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing, slight hesitation during breathing is okay. You also need to demonstrate comfort in the water, and you need to maintain a body position that is nearly horizontal. Your leg action “should contribute to forward motion.” The swim tests are “continuous” swims. You can’t stop at the side or hold on to a lane line or stand on the bottom.
The lifeguard portion of the certification is valid for two years, the CPR portion of the
certification is only valid for one year. All lifeguards in NY must renew their CPR certification yearly.
No, to obtain a valid CPR certification (Basic Life Support) for lifeguards you need to take an in-person skills test.
CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers course also known as BLS – Basic Life Support (BLS) course provides healthcare providers and public safety professionals the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies in adult, child and infant patients.
Yes, American Red Cross offers three different certifications;
- Lifeguarding
- Shallow Water Lifeguarding (water up to 5′ deep)
- Aquatic Attraction Lifeguarding (water up to 3′ deep)
Please visit the ARC website for more information.