As summer approaches and beaches, pools, and waterparks prepare to open, facilities will be looking to hire qualified, certified lifeguards. The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) is your premier source for finding the information and courses needed to become a certified lifeguard. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or a seasoned professional looking to renew your certification, the ALA has options for all skill levels.
Basic Lifeguard Certification Courses
For those with little to no experience in lifeguard training, the ALA offers entry-level certification courses to learn the essential skills and knowledge needed to be a lifeguard. Basic lifeguard certification classes will cover water rescue techniques, first aid, CPR, and AED use. Through lectures, in-water practice, and skill-building practice scenarios, students will gain the confidence and abilities required to act quickly and appropriately in an emergency situation to help prevent injury or save a life.
Advanced Certification and Specialty Courses
Those with a basic ALA lifeguard certification who want to expand their skillset can consider advanced certification and specialty courses. Some examples include:
Waterfront Lifeguard Certification: For those guarding beaches, lakes, or other non-pool aquatic areas. Learn about open-water rescues, weather hazards, and environmental concerns.
Lifeguard Instructor Certification: This certification is for experienced lifeguards interested in teaching basic certification courses. Gain valuable skills in course planning, instruction techniques, and evaluation of students.
Aquatic Facility Management Certification: Provides management training for those overseeing lifeguards and pool operations. Learn about regulations, staffing, emergency plans, and risk management.
CPR/AED/First Aid Instructor Certification: Certified instructors can teach basic life support and first aid courses to others. An important role for aquatic facilities.
Small Craft Safety Certification: Ideal for facilities with watercraft like kayaks and canoes. Covers safety equipment, trip planning, rescues from boats, and more.
The ALA also periodically offers additional specialty courses focused on areas like spinal injury management, surf guarding, and ice water rescue. Staying up to date allows lifeguards to expand their abilities.
(Continues the story with more details about ALA courses, locations, pricing, certification renewals, career opportunities for lifeguards, and a call to action at the end)
Training at an ALA Lifeguard School
For those ready to start the certification process, the ALA recommends attending one of its affiliated lifeguard training schools. ALA schools are located throughout the country near major cities and beach/waterfront areas to provide convenient access for students. Each school is fully stocked with state-of-the-art training equipment like lifesaving manikins, first aid supplies, training pools, and open-water sites.
Students can expect highly skilled ALA Instructor Members to lead their chosen certification course. Instructors bring decades of professional lifeguard experience and specialize in teaching the necessary cognitive, physical, and situation-based skills required to lifeguard effectively. Class sizes are kept small to allow for plenty of individualized attention.
Basic lifeguard certification courses provided at ALA schools last 2-3 days and include both lecture-based and in-the-water practical training sessions. For advanced certifications, course lengths may extend to 3-5 days, depending on the specific course. Students will be engaged in learning activities from early morning until mid-afternoon classes conclude each day.
The ALA strives to make lifeguard training affordable and accessible for all individuals wishing to enter this important public safety field. Basic certification course fees average $250, including all instruction, materials, and certification cards. For members of the ALA, a 10% discount applies to course tuition. Financing options may also be available for those qualifying.
To view a full list of ALA lifeguard schools, their locations, contact details, and upcoming courses, visit americanlifeguardassociation.org. Students can simply select their desired course and training dates, then register directly through the school of their choice. Proper prerequisites like minimum age and swim skills requirements apply and are detailed on each school’s webpage.
Certification Renewal and Continuing Education
For certified lifeguards ready to re-certify or seeking continuing education, the ALA can assist in maintaining credentialing in a few simple steps. Most basic certification cards through the ALA are valid for 2 years before renewal is required.
Renewal involves one of two options – either complete a full certification or recertification course through an ALA school or submit documentation proving completion of minimum continuing education hours within the certification period. A total of 16 hours of approved coursework spreads the cost of maintaining lifeguard skills over time rather than one larger renewal fee.
The ALA designates a variety of courses, seminars, and workshops that qualify for continuing education hours, including but not limited to:
· CPR/AED/First Aid courses
· Aquatic facility management/leadership training
· Water rescue/response technique refreshers
· Emergency action plan workshops
· Risk management training
Hours can be gained through in-person or online mediums offered by the ALA or other approved aquatic industry organizations. Lifeguards receive certificates of completion to submit with their renewal application and payment to the ALA.
Renewals allowing a American Lifeguard Association to maintain active certification for another two years is just $75 for ALA members, or $100 for non-members. This fee includes reissued wallet cards valid until the next renewal date. Proper and timely renewal ensures facilities hire lifeguards who are fully compliant with ALA standards.
Additionally, opportunities exist within the ALA itself as Member Services Representatives, Instructors, Regional Managers or more. Consider becoming involved through local ALA involvement, committee work, or training the next wave of lifeguards. Protecting lives through aquatics is highly rewarding for those with a passion for serving.
In conclusion, the ALA exists to support all those with a goal of becoming lifeguards or furthering their careers in aquatics. Whether just starting out or a veteran professional looking to expand your skill set, we invite you to utilize our wide range of training programs, certification pathways, networking resources, and support. Together, through safety education, we save lives. To get started, contact the ALA or visit americanlifeguardassociation.org today.
