Learn to Be a Lifesaver
Our Lifeguard courses are designed to ensure that you are properly trained
and rescue ready when moments matter.
Our classes are blended learning which combines online learning with in-person skills sessions where you will practice skills and demonstrate competency. Please plan to complete the initial eLearning lessons of your training at least two days prior to your first on-site skills session.
LOCATIONS OFFERED
Warlick Family YMCA
2221 Robinwood Road, Gastonia, NC 28054
AGE REQUIREMENTS
Certification: 15 years and up
Recertification: 17 years and up
SESSION DATES
May 10 - 12
May 31 - June 2
SESSION TIMES
Fridays 4:30pm-9:00pm
Saturdays 10:30am-6:30pm
Sundays 9:30am-6:30pm
PRICING
Certification
YMCA Members: $209
Program Participants: $269
Recertification
YMCA Members: $190
Program Participants: $250
To successfully complete the course and receive certification, you must:
- Complete all online course content in advance of the corresponding in-person sessions
- Attend all in-person sessions Actively participate in all course activities
- Demonstrate proficiency in all skills
- Pass the final written exam with a minimum grade of 80 percent
- Pass three final skill assessments
For the in-person sessions, please bring:
- A swimsuit that will stay secure during physical activity
- A towel
- Comfortable clothing for classroom activities
- For your comfort, you may want to bring an extra swimsuit, a change of dry clothes, and an extra layer (such as a sweatshirt and sweatpants).
PRE-COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Part 1:
- Jump in, submerge, resurface, and swim continuously for 150 yards:
a. tread water for 2 minutes
b. swim continuously for 50 more yards - During the swimming test, you must keep your face in the water and display good breath control. You may use the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both, but swimming on your back or side is not allowed.
- Swim goggles are allowed.
- When treading water, you must use only your legs.
Part 2:
- Starting in the water, swim 20 yards with your face either in or out of the water.
- Surface dive (head-first or feet-first) and retrieve a 10-pound dive brick.
- Swim 20 yards on your back, returning to the starting point, holding the dive brick with both hands while keeping your face at or near the surface.
- Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.
- Swim goggles are not allowed.
This is a blended learning class that combines online coursework with in-person skill sessions. Please plan to complete all the assigned online course modules at least two days prior to the in-person session and email your completion record to chyde@gastonymca.org. During the first in-person session, you will need to provide proof of age and identity by presenting a driver’s license, state identification card, or passport.
CLASS PREREQUISITES
- Online course work is due prior to the first day of class for all blended learning courses.
- This will be emailed to participants after registration.
Red Cross Lifeguard Recertification
Recertification classes are offered to guards who have a current lifeguard certification or certification that is less than 30 days expired. Registrants must provide proof of a valid Red Cross Lifeguarding Certification. Requirements to successfully recertify:
- Successfully complete the lifeguard swim test
- Attend and participate in all class sessions and activities
- Demonstrate competency in all required Lifeguarding skills, including CPR and First Aid
- Pass the final skills scenarios and the final written exam with a minimum grade of 80%.
- Complete the blended learning course
Get Hired as a Lifeguard for the YMCA
We are always looking for dedicated staff members! In fact, we train new staff at our expense with our training agreement.
Contact Candace Hyde for more information if you are interested in lifeguarding at the YMCA by emailing chyde@gastonymca.org or calling 704.830.9622 today!