Learning Lifeguard Recertification

Getting a lifeguard certificate through the internet can seem challenging. You might think that they aren’t actually available this way anymore. But, actually, they’re out there waiting for you to be fully qualified and take on a new job that can potentially save many lives. This training is especially good for concerned parents who’d like to have that extra added protection while their kids are in the pool. But, before you start the process, you’ll need to know what it takes to be a lifeguard. Here’s a look at some of the basics.

To get a lifeguard certificate, you need to be at least 16 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Some people don’t really think that lifeguards do anything besides just retrieve people from the water. But, in actuality, they do much more than that. For example, some people have to swim to rescue someone who’s drowning. Others must retrieve someone from a pond or lake, where the weather conditions make it difficult to swim.

When you complete your lifeguard certification training, you’ll learn how to spot dangerous situations, such as drowning or danger from predatory animals like seals and dolphins. You also will learn the basics of how to rescue someone who cannot swim, including CPR skills. In order to be considered for a lifeguarding course, you must demonstrate these and other lifesaving skills within a certain time period. There are two courses, you can complete to earn your lifeguarding certificate: A one-day course and a two-day course.

Now that you know exactly what it takes to earn your lifeguarding certificate, you may be wondering when you’ll get the benefit. Every state has its own requirements for lifeguarding certification. You should check with your local board to find out the exact requirements for your area. Generally speaking, you should be certified within three years after beginning your classes. However, some states require faster completion of courses or require for online lifeguard certification every five years. Your local agency should be able to help you understand the specific requirements for your area.

After your certification, you will need to sit for a swim test that measures your physical and technical abilities. At the end of your swim test, you will likely be required to take a CPR test. This is an advanced CPR skill that indicates your ability to quickly perform mouth-to-mouth breathing in cases of drowning and emergencies. A swim instructor will also review your training and recommend you for additional courses in different water safety instructor areas, such as swimming safety, first aid, and CPR.

Your certificate expires after ten years, or upon completion of your course, whichever comes first. Once you have successfully completed your certification, you can apply for a job as a Lifeguard. To get hired as a Lifeguard, you must first complete the recommended course requirements, pass a background, interview, and CPR/First Aid certification exam. Then, on the last day of your program, you’ll be hired by a participating Florida Lifeguard Company.