2. On-Land Section

The instructor will facilitate in-depth learning paired with hands-on practice in the following topics: the foundation of lifeguarding, bloodborne pathogens, reducing risks, basic first aid, basic life support, and emergency oxygen.

​

3. In-Water Section

To ensure each participant is comfortable enough in the water to participate in the in-water section of the course safely, the instructor will check to ensure each participant can perform the following initial screening tests without assistance:

• Retrieve a 10-pound weight from the bottom of a 9-foot deep pool.

• Tread water for one minute without the use of hands.

• Swim 50 yards freestyle or breaststroke with the head up as if sighting a victim (without a rescue tube).

• Swim 50 yards freestyle or breaststroke with the head up as if sighting a victim (with a rescue tube).

​

After checking off initial screening tests, the instructor will go over prevention and risk management, water rescue techniques at all depths and circumstances, spinal injury management, escapes, and back boarding.

​

4. Performance Evaluations and Final Exam​

Each participant must demonstrate competence in the first aid and emergency response techniques they learned by correctly administering simulated care in six different performance evaluations.

Example Performance Evaluation:

Performance evaluations typically involve partners of two, where one acts out being the patron and the other as the lifeguard. For a simulated drowning incident, the lifeguard candidate would be expected to be able to provide a reasonable response without the assistance of the instructor or other participants:

1. Alert others using the whistle and activate the Emergency Action Plan

2. Use the correct entry method and approach stroke to swim to the patron

3. Successfully perform the in-water rescue technique, including beginning in-water rescue breathing

4. Work with a team to safely remove the patron from the water

5. Once on the pool deck, check the patron's pulse and breathing, and start CPR if needed

​

At the end of the course, participants must pass the following exams with an 80% or higher:

• StarGuard Lifeguard exam (50 questions)

• ASHI Emergency Oxygen exam (10 questions)

​

​

Additional questions?

Speak with one of our instructors－ (480) 429-4079