If you’re considering a career as a lifeguard or just want to help ensure safety at your local pool or beach, taking a lifeguard training course is an important step. Lifeguard classes will teach you the skills needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies like diving accidents, near drowning, spinal injuries, and more. As the largest certifying body for lifeguards in the United States, the American Lifeguard Association offers both open water and pool lifeguard certification classes across the country.
Course Logistics and Requirements
Lifeguard training courses through the ALA typically last 2-3 days and involve both classroom and in-water skills sessions. Lifeguard classes are held on weekends and some evenings to accommodate busy schedules. The ALA follows national guidelines on course length and content to ensure trainees learn relevant and up-to-date information. Most classes have a minimum age requirement of 15 years old. Trainees also need to pass both written and skills exams to receive certification.
How to Find Upcoming Lifeguard Classes Near You
If you’re searching for lifeguard class near me, there are a few easy ways to discover upcoming courses offered by the American Lifeguard Association.
The best first step is visiting https://americanlifeguard.com/ and clicking on the “Find A Class” link. This will allow you to search for training centers in your state or zip code. You can then view their lifeguard class schedules and register directly on the ALA site.
Another handy resource is the ALA mobile app. Available for iOS and Android, the app lets you locate lifeguard classes using your current location. Simply open the app and you’ll see the nearest upcoming classes within 50 miles. All class details are accessible from the app for easy reference on the go.
For a more personalized approach, don’t hesitate to call the training center nearest you. Friendly and experienced staff can answer any questions about prerequisites, schedules, pricing structures and directions. They’ll help you select the perfect class to fit your availability and needs.
Checking out the ALA or local training center’s social media pages like Facebook is another effective way to stay in the loop. Centers regularly post updates on new classes, registration deadlines, and other aquatic safety programs in the area.
With so many easy search options, there’s no reason not to find and sign up for a convenient lifeguard class near your home or workplace. Get a head start on your water safety career – start searching for “lifeguard class near me” today!
Classroom Content
The first part of the course focuses on knowledge and theory. Expect an in-depth review of topics like aquatic facility safety, accident prevention strategies, first aid protocols, spinal injury management, and emergency action plans. Interactive discussions and videos keep things engaging. Quizzes throughout help assess comprehension of concepts. Many instructors supplement lessons with real-life rescue stories and scenarios to emphasize application of skills.
In-Water Skills Development
After the classroom foundation is set, the bulk of the ALA training shifts to the pool or open water environment. Here students will learn and practice surveillance techniques, swimming rescues, use of safety equipment like backboards, CPR procedures including AED operation, and in-water victim assessments. Instructors demonstrate skills step-by-step and provide feedback as trainees perform skills individually and in pairs. Mastering skills like front and back carries are essential for certification.
Other Key Components
In addition to lecture and skills work, lifeguard classes involve components like:
Fitness pre-requisite: Candidates must prove swimming ability and complete a timed swim
First aid/CPR certification: Courses include training to become certified in first aid and CPR for the Professional Rescuer
Scenario tests: Practical scenarios put classroom and in-water lessons to the test before final exams
Certification and Next Steps
Upon successful completion of the written and skills exams at the end of class, trainees will receive certifications from the ALA that are valid for 2 years. These certifications allow graduates to work as lifeguards at pools, waterparks, beaches, and other aquatic facilities. Many graduates use their training to launch careers in aquatics and public safety. The ALA certification is a mark of a highly trained professional committed to preserving lives in and around the water.
Location and Costs
The ALA offers open water and pool lifeguard classes year-round at over 100 training centers nationwide. Courses near major cities and vacation destinations ensure convenient access for both locals and travelers. Check https://americanlifeguard.com/ for a full schedule of upcoming classes with locations, dates, and prices which typically range from $200-300 per person depending on location. Financial assistance may also be available for eligible students. Read more informative article click here.
Register Today for a Class Near You!
If you’re ready to help protect lives in your community and gain essential job skills, sign up for the next available lifeguard training course through the American Lifeguard Association. Contact an ALA training center directly or register online. Classes fill quickly, so don’t wait to take that first step towards an impactful career in aquatics safety and emergency response. The ALA is dedicated to producing the highest caliber lifeguards—let them help you start saving lives.
