Lifeguard Training
Lifeguard Certification Course
The American Red Cross and the YMCA have teamed up to bring our community Lifeguard Certification Course. American Red Cross Lifeguard Training is a certification course for those individuals interested in becoming certified to work as a lifeguard. Participants who successfully complete the course will earn American Red Cross Certification in Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer.
Step One: Pre-Course Skills Test
Participants are required to pass a Pre-Course Skills Swim Test prior to acceptance in the Lifeguard Training Course. Register for the Pre-Test a minimum of two weeks prior to actual desired course date by completing the included Lifeguard Training Registration form along with Pre-Course Skill Test payment at either YMCA Welcome Center or online at www.hastingsymca.net. Upon registering for Pre-Course Skills Test, you will be contacted for an individual appointment to take the Pre-Course Skills Swim Test. There are two chances to pass this test. If participant does not complete requirements they may register for Pretest and try again. Participants must be 15 years of age prior to the final day of the course of participation.
Pre-Course Skill Test Fee:
Hastings YMCA members $10 / Non-member Participant $15
Pre-Course Skill Test Components:
300 Yard Swim: During the 300 yard swim, participants must demonstrate proficiency in both Front Crawl and Breast Stroke. The swim must be continuous. There is no time limit.
Timed Element: Participants have 100 seconds to swim 20 yards, surface dive to the bottom of10 feet, retrieve a 10lb object, return 20 yards on the back, and exit the pool.
Treading Water: Participants must demonstrate the ability to tread water without using their hands for 2 minutes.
Download registration form for upcoming dates.
Step Two: Lifeguard Course Information
Once Pre-Course Skills Test has been passed satisfactorily, you may register for any upcoming lifeguard course within 6 months.
Fees:
$110.00 per YMCA member
$160.00 per Non-member
Course registration fees include American Red Cross Breathing Mask
Required American Red Cross Lifeguard Manual 2012 edition Options:
A) Purchase from the YMCA for a fee of $35 paid to YMCA
B) Rent from the YMCA for a deposit of $35 paid to YMCA (Deposit returned depending on book condition)
C) Download for free to be used electronically or self-printed
http://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/program-highlights/lifeguarding#lifeguarding
Frequently Asked Questions about Lifeguard courses
What Will I Be Certified In?
Upon successful completion of the lifeguard training course or recertification course participants will be certified in American Red Cross Lifeguarding, First AID/CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer.
When Will I Receive My Cards?
Certification Cards will be available upon successful completion of the lifeguard training course requirements, and the return of all course materials.
How Long Does Certification Last?
All certifications are 2 years. However, the state of Nebraska requires anyone who wishes to lifeguard to recertify his/her CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer every year.
What Is The Minimum Age Requirement?
Lifeguard Class participants must be 15 by the last day of class.
What If I Already Hold Current Certifications In CPR Or First Aid?
The Red Cross requires that lifeguards hold CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer in order for the Lifeguard/First Aid certification to be considered valid. In the state of Nebraska, CPR/AED certifications must be renewed annually to remain eligible for employment as a Lifeguard. There is no reduction of course fees if you hold a current CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer certification. Students who hold certification in lay responder certifications are required to participate in all course components to pass the course.
What Do I Need To Bring With Me To Class Each Day?
Students should bring the following to class each day:
Course manual, pocket mask, swim suit, towel, lock, snacks/drinks, lunch, money if purchasing snacks/lunch out of facility, glasses or contact case/solution, and a writing utensil. Pocket mask will be issued in the lifeguard course.
Will Breaks Be Provided During Class?
Periodically throughout class small breaks of 15 to 20 minutes will be taken for rest, snacks, etc. A 1 hour lunch break will be taken both Saturday and Sunday. The exact time of the lunch break will be determined based on the progress of the class that day and natural breaks in course curriculum.
Cancellation Policy
Withdrawal from the course 5 or more business days prior to course start will be charged a $10 withdrawal fee.
Withdrawal from the course less than 5 business days prior to course start will be eligible for 50% refund.
Withdrawal on the day course begins will not be eligible for refund.
YMCA cancellation of class or program will be eligible for 100% refund.
Make-Up Classes
Make-up classes will not be allowed. Class cancellations made by YMCA will be rescheduled or refunded.
Payments
Full payment is due following Pre-Course Skills Test or a minimum of two days prior to course start.
Certification
All class sessions have set dates and times and meet at the 16th Street facility. Attendance is required during all course meeting times. Participants must demonstrate competency in all required skills and activities to pass the class successfully and receive certification. The final decision belongs to the class instructor.