Lifeguard Training
In partnership with the American Red Cross, the Aquatics Division offers lifeguard training courses for those interested in protecting the safety of swimmers.
Lifeguard Training Courses (15 and older)
All classes cover Lifeguard Training, First Aid, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, Preventing Disease Transmission, Oxygen Administration, and AED Essentials.
In order to participate you must be at least 15 years old and able to complete the following skills on the morning of the first day of class:
- Swim 300 yards (12 lengths) without stopping (100 front crawl, 100 breaststroke, 100 front crawl or breaststroke or a combination of the two).
- Swim out 20 yards, dive down and retrieve a 10-lb object from a depth of 7-9 feet, swim back to the wall with the object, place the object on the side of the pool and climb out within 1 minute 40 seconds.
While completing the 300 yard continuous swim participants must use rhythmic breathing and have a stabilizing, propellent kick in the front crawl. The breaststroke must have a clear pull, breathe, kick and glide sequence. Participants will not be permitted to continue with the class if unable to complete these skills. Please check with pool staff for passes to come to the pool for practice prior to the class.
Although the Parks and Recreation Aquatics Unit does draw from the classes for summer employees, successful completion of the class does NOT guarantee employment with the City of Tallahassee. Regardless of current certifications, ALL new employees are required to complete one of the classes offered by the City of Tallahassee prior to being put on the schedule.
2009 Season Training
Lifeguard training classes have concluded for 2009. Classes will resume in late winter/early spring. Watch for class dates in December and January!
Guard Start - Junior Lifeguard Program
Junior Lifeguard classes have concluded for 2009. Register for 2010 classes in April!