Over the past several summers swimming pools, rivers, lakes and beaches have been affected by an increasing shortage of lifeguards. Many news articles and press releases have brought attention to this problem but agencies continue to struggle season after season. City recreation departments and private health clubs spread the word about employment opportunities, but applications slowly trickle in. Pool managers with staffing struggles delay their openings and in some cases close pools entirely. So what has happened to the appeal of being a lifeguard? It’s a great learning tool and stepping stone for those entering health care or public safety fields. For many teens and college students it can be a great summer job.

A 2014 American Red Cross survey found 10 Americans die every day from unintentional drowning — two of them are children younger than 14. As a certified Lifeguard you can help to prevent these types of incidents and accidents from occurring. Safety Training Pros provides Lifeguard classes, beginning in March, throughout Northern California. Our classes are Fun, Fast and Easy! We prepare each student for real life situations. Students learn the knowledge and skills needed to help prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies. Through videos, group discussion and hands-on practice, students learn patron rescue and surveillance skills, land and water rescue skills, as well as first aid and CPR/AED.

In order to take the class you must be at least 15 years old and pass certain swimming requirements: 300-yd continuous swim using front crawl (freestyle) and breaststroke. 2 minute tread using only your legs. Timed event – swim and retrieve a 10-pound object from a depth of 7-10 feet. Return to the surface with object and exit the pool without the use of ladder or stairs. Successful completion of the course includes a 2 year American Red Cross Lifeguard/CPR/AED & First Aid certificate.

For a list of our upcoming aquatic classes please visit us at https://safetytrainingpros.com/lifeguard-certification or call us at  844-900-SAFE (7233).