The prerequisite swim test is a mandatory part of the course that students must pass in order to move forward and attend. We recommend that students practice these skills at a local pool in preparation before your scheduled evaluation and class.

The primary purpose of this course is to provide entry-level lifeguard participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies and to provide professional-level care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden illnesses until emergency medical services (EMS) personnel take over.

1. The Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence

You must complete this sequence without stopping to rest:

• Jump into the water and completely submerge, then resurface.

• Swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both. Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. You may use swim goggles for this part.

• Maintain position at the surface for 2 minutes by treading water, using only your legs.

• Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both.

2. The Timed Event

You must complete the following sequence within 1 minute and 40 seconds:

• Start in the water and swim 20 yards. (Goggles are not permitted for this portion.)

• Surface dive (feet-first or head-first) to a depth of 7–10 feet to retrieve a 10 lb. object.

• Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on your back to return to the starting point, holding the object at the surface with both hands while keeping your face out of the water.

• Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

Our two-day, blended learning Lifeguarding certification is valid for two years and includes CPR/AED and First Aid training. Students are required to complete the seven-hour online portion before attending the course. Lifeguards will need to recertify to update their certifications.

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