Lifeguards and Swimming Instructors

Certification or Licensing

All lifeguards and instructors must be certified to work. Depending on their skill level, lifeguards must pass a training program, from basic lifeguard training to head lifeguard to aquatic professional. The basic lifeguard course lasts approximately six days and tests swimming skills. You will need to be able to swim 500 yards (no time frame) and tread water for one minute—as well as demonstrate your physical endurance, professionalism, and skills in using lifesaving equipment and techniques, CPR, and first aid. Head lifeguard courses teach advanced techniques in injury prevention, selection and training of guards, team building, and emergency response planning. To successfully complete the program, guards must attend and participate in the course, pass a written test, and demonstrate their guarding skills in the pool.

Instructors also must obtain certification to prove their teaching and swimming skills. The American Red Cross offers the designation water safety instructor to individuals 16 years of age or older. To earn this designation, candidates must attend and participate in the course, pass a written test, and prove their skills in techniques such as shallow and deep-water diving, rescue and lifesaving techniques, and demonstrate ability in all swimming strokes.

Special Requirements

Lifeguards must pass physical tests of swimming speed and ability, involving retrieving items from deep water, carrying swimmers to shore or a pool deck, and swimming distances within a set time. They must also be at least age 16.