Lifeguard Requirements - What Training Programs Are Required?

Aug 26, 2021

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Lifeguard requirements vary from one pool to another. Some beaches require swimmers to have a certain amount of experience as a Lifeguard and others may not. Most lifeguards are certified by the American Society for Lifeguard Diving and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Foundation. This certification is also required of all certified instructors in most lifeguard and rescue swim schools. There are also several organizations that offer basic courses in basic lifeguard and rescue training in Florida.


The lifeguard requirements vary from one state to another, as do the different types of swimming pools they must access. Florida is one state that does not require lifeguards to have any formal training; rather, they must be volunteers. However, there are certain areas in Florida where mandatory swimming pool safety training and certification are required. These areas include the state of Florida, all or part of the state of Georgia, Florida Keys and all or parts of the state of Hawaii.



Lifeguard requirements in Florida also include CPR, which stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This is a method used to keep oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs until more advanced medical treatment can be provided. In order to receive CPR certification, a person must attend a five-hour online course on basic first aid. The student then passes an exam that includes knowledge of CPR techniques and breathing methods. If someone is certified after the training, they are required to complete at least two hours of continuing education every year in order to maintain their certification.


There are several requirements that must be met before one can become certified as a Lifeguard. The person will need to have a high school diploma or an equivalent. Some states require individuals to have at least a bachelor's degree in order to obtain the certification. There is also a written exam that must be passed before certification is received.


Lifeguard requirements in Florida also include CPR certification. Although this is not required by law, many lifeguards do carry the necessary training and education in order to administer CPR if needed. Individuals who are hired by companies that hire lifeguards must take a lifeguard training course that includes at least two hours of CPR. The person then works under the supervision of a licensed lifeguard to complete the training program.


Lifeguard requirements vary depending upon where a person lives. There are a few states that require lifeguards to undergo additional training in emergency rescue and first aid if they are hired to swim with swimmers in hazardous conditions. Some of these states also require that lifeguards have specific experience in water rescue and first aid in emergencies. Individuals who are employed by vacation clubs need to complete a basic lifeguard training program for their club before becoming a permanent employee. Anyone who is hired to work in swimming pools must complete an approved training program for his or her certification.