In this American Red Cross lifeguarding course, entry-level lifeguard participants will gain the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies and to provide care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries, and sudden illnesses until emergency medical services (EMS) personnel take over. Attendees must be able to attend all days and are asked to bring personal suit, towel, and notebook.

Minimum age to participate is 15 by the final day of class.

At the start of the first day, participants must pass a pre-course session that includes: 150-yard swim, 2-minute tread with no hands, and swim 50 yards. Also retrieve a 10 lb. brick and return with it to the wall and exit the pool within 100 seconds.