Purpose:

The primary purpose of the American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor Course is to train instructors to teach the American Red Cross Lifeguarding courses and their modules.

Prerequisites:

• Be at least 17 years old on or before the last day of the instructor course. Possess a current American Red Cross Lifeguard with CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer with First Aid certificate (Shallow Water Lifeguarding does not qualify).
• Complete the Online Module for the Lifeguarding Instructor course. Successful completion of the Prerequisite Skill Assessment Scenario, which evaluates the following skills:
  • Entry
  • Swimming approach
  • Surface dive in deep water (7 to 10 feet)
  • Passive submerged rescue
  • Rapid extrication (with assisting rescuer)
  • Rapid assessment
  • Single-rescuer CPR (3 minutes)

Certification Requirements:

• Arrive to the course with proof that they completed the Online Session (mentioned above; directions on how to complete the Online Session will be sent to candidates after signing up for the course). Attend and actively participate in all course sessions. 
• Complete class activities, including the two practice-teaching assignments. Score a minimum of 80 percent on the instructor course final written exam. Instructor candidates must also demonstrate that they are mature and responsible throughout the course. Instructor trainers assess maturity and responsibility by observing behaviors. These behaviors include but are not limited to:
  • Arriving at class on time and being prepared.
  • Being prepared for class activities, such as having homework completed and being dressed in swimwear when required.
  • Behaving appropriately during activities.
  • Providing appropriate feedback, as requested, especially to peers after practice-teaching assignments.
  • Receiving feedback from the instructor trainer as well as peers in a professional manner.

Certification Issued and Validity Period:

Certificates will be emailed within 2 weeks of the course completion and will be valid for 2 years. The Red Cross Learning Center for Instructors will be activated for each successful candidate within 3 weeks of successful completion.

Course Materials:

• American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructors Manual (r.24)* (Printed Copy)
• American Red Cross Lifeguarding Manual (r.24)* (Printed or Digital)
• Lifeguarding Course Presentation (r.24)*

*Be prepared with the American Red Cross' r.24 updated manuals and materials released February 6, 2024.