What Should You Look for When Choosing a Lifeguard Course?

Becoming a lifeguard is a rewarding way to work with people and ensure safety at pools, beaches and water parks. However, with so many lifeguard certification courses to choose from, it’s important to find the right one. This article from the American Lifeguard Association will help you identify the key factors to consider when picking a lifeguard training program.

Look for a Reputable Certifying Organization

The certifying body that oversees the lifeguard course is one of the most important aspects to evaluate. When possible, opt for a course certified by a large, nationally recognized organization like the American Lifeguard Association (ALA). National certifications ensure your training meets consistent standards and will be recognized by employers nationwide.

Be wary of courses from unknown certifying bodies, as their training requirements may not be as thorough or their certification as widely accepted by employers. Reputable organizations like the ALA have extensive experience in lifeguard training and work to maintain rigorous certification standards. Their courses also use the latest protocols and are frequently updated based on new water safety research.

Comprehensive Skills Training Should Be Included

A quality lifeguard course will provide robust hands-on skills practice in all the critical areas needed for the job. This includes CPR and first aid training, water rescues, spinal injury management, surveillance techniques, emergency action planning and more. The best courses simulate real-life scenarios for students to practice their responses.

Make sure the course you choose provides sufficient in-water training hours to become proficient in lifeguarding skills before certification. Ask about average class sizes too – smaller classes allow for more individualized instruction time. Comprehensive skills training is key to feeling fully prepared for the responsibilities of being a lifeguard.

Instructors Should Be Highly Qualified

Instructor qualifications greatly impact the learning experience and how much students take away from the course. When selecting a program, find out the minimum requirements to become an instructor. Look for programs like those through the ALA, which require instructors to be current lifeguards with advanced certification and teaching experience.

Experienced, professional instructors can teach with mastery of both lifeguarding practical skills and the theoretical concepts underlying them. They also serve as mentors during training. Instructor qualifications give insight into how thoroughly a program prepares its students for success as lifeguards.

Consider Course Length and Format

Ideally, look for a course that is between 32-40 hours total depending on whether it’s for basic lifeguarding or adding waterfront or water park certification. Longer programs allow for proper coverage of all necessary topics without feeling rushed.

Some courses are conducted fully online which can fit some schedules but lacks valuable in-person skills practice. A blended format of online learning and classroom time capitalizes on the benefits of both and is preferable when possible. Fully in-person courses remain the gold standard for a hands-on role like lifeguarding.

Affordability and Flexibility Matter Too

Taking the time for lifeguard training is an investment, so cost is understandably a factor. Quality programs can vary in price depending on location and amenities, but reputable certifying organizations like the ALA work to keep costs reasonable through standardized national pricing.

Inquire about payment plans, financial assistance options or employer reimbursement if needed. Look also at scheduling flexibility – can courses be taken part-time or on a flexible schedule to better fit your needs? Comprehensive yet affordable training lets you focus fully on the learning experience.

Does the Course Cover Important Topics?

Reviewing course outlines and syllabi allows you to compare coverage of key lifeguarding subject areas. These will vary slightly by certifying body but should include:

• Risk management and injury prevention strategies
• Surveillance techniques and scanning best practices
• Basic first aid protocols for common emergencies
• Spinal injury management and first response guidelines
• CPR skills for infants, children and adults
• Rescue techniques like back boarding and spinal restraints

Thoroughly addressing all critical topic areas sets the program, and graduates, up for success in lifeguarding roles. Comparing outlines allows you to choose the course that best meets these coverage needs.

Employer Acceptance Matters for Job Prospects

While certifications are standardized, some employers have preferences for graduates of particular training programs. Find out which organizations or facilities the course you’re considering has partnerships with. A program like that of the ALA, with a long history and national reputation, sees broad acceptance from prospective aquatic employers.

This acceptance means good prospects for employment post-certification. Consider factors like these that weigh on future career opportunities when selecting your best lifeguard course option. Read more informative article click here.

Making the Right Choice

Due diligence in evaluating lifeguard training programs based on certifying body reputation, skills coverage, instructor qualifications, cost, and employer acceptance leads to an informed decision. With careful consideration of these key factors, you can feel confident you’ve selected the course best set up to fully prepare you as a professional, hire-able lifeguard. Please let me know if you have any other questions!