Certifications
Programs
Certifications & Trainings
Lifeguard Certification - ARC
THE YMCA IS COMMITTED TO ADDRESS THE LIFEGUARD SHORTAGE, FOR ALL.
In 2023, our Y is committed to water safety for children, adults and families around the entire Greater Birmingham. The YMCA is committed to training 1500 lifeguards so they may be deployed around the City to prevent drowning. Our Lifeguard Certifications will be offered Free of Charge to the community for those able to meet the Prerequisites – REGARDLESS of who may hire them.
The American Red Cross – Lifeguard Blended Learning Certification Class – courses are available year-round from certified professionals who will deliver the course designed to ensure that participants are properly trained and prepared in the event of a water emergency. This class will certify participants in Lifeguarding, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid and AED. Participant must complete the online blended learning course assignments BEFORE attending the first day of class and attend all in person classes as well as pass a final written and water test.
Class Prerequisites:
1. All participants must be at least 15 years old on or before the last day of class.
2. Swim 300 yards continuously (using freestyle and breaststroke) demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing.
3. Tread water with no hands for 2 minutes using only the legs. Candidates may not use their arms to help tread.
4. Complete a timed event in within 1 minute, 40 seconds.
2. Swim 300 yards continuously (using freestyle and breaststroke) demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing.
3. Tread water with no hands for 2 minutes using only the legs. Candidates may not use their arms to help tread.
4. Complete a timed event in within 1 minute, 40 seconds.
- Starting in the water, swim 20 yards
- Surface dive to a depth of 7-10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound brick.
- Return to the surface and swim 20 yards back to the starting point with both hands holding the brick while keeping the face at or near the surface so they are able to get a breath.
- Exit the pool without using a ladder or steps.
A variety of Class Days/Times are available across our branches – click below for all available sessions
CPR/AED/First Aid Training
The American Red Cross CPR/AED/First Aid course provides participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to sustain life and minimize the consequences of injury or sudden illness until advanced medical help arrives. Upon successful completion of this course, participants will hold an Adult, Infant, Child CPR/AED, and First Aid certification valid for two years.
Skills acquired in this course cannot be applied to a lifeguarding certification as this course certifies participants in rescue skills for lay responders, not professional rescuers.
Pricing:
$53 Members | $106 Non Members
Water Safety
This class fulfills the requirements for those going through the Foster/Adoption process in the state of Alabama and can be offered in conjunction with the CPR/First Aid classes. This course also covers the differences of swimming in a natural body of water and gives you the skills to be prepared in case of an emergency. This course does not certify you to become a Lifeguard.
Pricing:
$28 Members | $56 Non Member
Water Safety classes are by appointment only and scheduled directly through the Aquatics Director. Please contact your local branch to schedule.
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