Lifeguard Certification

Become a Leader. Become a Lifeguard.

The Fulton County YMCA is now offering American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification—a nationally recognized training program designed to prepare teens and adults for leadership, lifesaving, and employment in an aquatic environment.

This comprehensive course, led in partnership with the American Red Cross, equips participants with the skills needed to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies, while building confidence, communication, and teamwork in a professional setting.

Course Dates & Schedule

Participants may choose from one of the following sessions:

March 6–7, 2026

June 12–13, 2026

August 21–22, 2026

Fridays: 4:00–10:00 PM

Saturdays: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM

The program is open to teens (15+) and adults.

Program Cost

$465

Please note: additional online training is required prior to attending the in-water rescue skills portion of the course.

Course Requirements

To participate, students must meet the following prerequisites:

Be 15 years old by the last day of the course

Complete a 300-yard continuous swim (freestyle and/or breaststroke, no stopping)

Tread water for 2 minutes using legs only

Successfully complete the brick test by retrieving a 10-lb object from 7–10 feet of water and returning it within 1 minute and 40 seconds

Why Become a Certified Lifeguard?

Earning your American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification is more than a credential—it’s an opportunity to grow as a leader and make a meaningful impact in your community. Participants will:

Earn a nationally recognized lifeguard certification

Develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills

Learn lifesaving techniques including water rescue, CPR, AED use, and first aid

Gain experience in a mission-driven, supportive organization

Explore flexible scheduling opportunities, especially ideal for students

Lifeguarding at the YMCA offers a chance to build professional skills while playing a critical role in keeping our community safe.

For questions, please contact:

Zara Kluska, Aquatics Coordinator

📧 jkluska@fultoncountyymca.org

📞 (518) 725-0627 ext. 0627

Take the next step toward leadership, lifesaving skills, and meaningful work—right here at the Fulton County YMCA.