Lifeguard Training and Certification at the Y

Become a certified lifeguard with the YMCA of Greater Cleveland and learn the skills you need to save lives and protect the safety of others. Our Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Courses are designed to prepare participants with the most current training standards, including the updated r.24 prerequisites. This program provides comprehensive instruction in water rescue techniques, CPR, AED, and First Aid, making it perfect for those looking to start a rewarding career in aquatics.

Why Become a Certified Lifeguard at the YMCA?

Expert Training: Learn from experienced, Red Cross-certified instructors.
Hands-On Learning: Practice real-world rescue scenarios and emergency response techniques.
Career Readiness: Earn a certification recognized nationwide for lifeguarding employment opportunities.
Make a Difference: Gain the skills to help save lives and ensure water safety for your community.

Course Overview

Our lifeguard certification course covers all the essential skills needed to keep swimmers safe and respond to emergencies effectively. The program includes:

Water rescue techniques
CPR, AED, and First Aid certification
Surveillance and prevention strategies
Teamwork and emergency response training

Updated Prerequisites (r.24)

Participants must successfully complete the following pre-course swim assessment to begin training:

Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence

Swim 150 yards continuously using front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both.
Swimming on the back or side is not permitted.
Goggles are not allowed.
Maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs.
Swim an additional 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both.

Timed Event

Complete the following within 1 minute, 40 seconds:

Start in the water and swim 20 yards. Face may be in or out of the water. Goggles are not allowed.
Perform a surface dive (feet first or head first) to a depth of 7-10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object.
Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back, holding the object at the surface with both hands while keeping the face at or near the surface.
Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

Program Features

American Red Cross Certification: Earn a certification valid nationwide for 2 years.
Blended Learning Options: Complete portions of the course online, followed by in-person hands-on training.
Small Class Sizes: Receive individualized instruction and feedback to build confidence.
Employment Opportunities: Certification qualifies you to work as a lifeguard at pools.

Who Can Enroll?

Participants must be 15 years or older by the last day of the course.
Must successfully complete the r.24 pre-course swim assessment (see above).

Locations and Registration

Lifeguard certification courses are offered at select YMCA of Greater Cleveland locations. Contact your local branch or visit our program search page for upcoming class schedules and registration details.

Start Your Lifeguard Journey Today

Becoming a lifeguard is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to gain life-saving skills, build leadership qualities, and make a positive impact on your community. Join the YMCA of Greater Cleveland’s Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Course today and take the first step toward a rewarding future.

Register Now