Q:  What are the prerequisites for the Red Cross Certification class?

Swimming

Successfully complete the two prerequisite swimming skills evaluations:

Prerequisite 1: Complete a swim-tread-swim sequence without stopping to rest:

• Jump into the water and totally submerge, resurface then swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both. (Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed.)

• Maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs.

• Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both.

Prerequisite 2: Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds:

• Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. (The face may be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed.)

• Surface dive (feet-first or head-first) to a depth of 7 – 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object.

• Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point, holding the object at the surface with both hands and keeping the face out at or near the surface.

• Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

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Q: How much does the Lifeguarding: Full Course cost?

The fee for the course is $270. If you come to work for us, the cost will be reduced to $240. 

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Q: I don't work for you yet, but would like to. Will I still get the employee discount on the course fee?

Yes. When you're hired, we'll issue you a credit refunding you back the employee discount amount.  

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Q: Can I choose my pool location/assignment if I come work for you?

If there is a position still available at that pool, absolutely.

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Q: What is the minimum age to participate in the American Red Cross Lifeguarding Course??​

Participants must have their 15th birthday on or before the end date of the course.

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Q: What if I don’t pass the class? Do I get my money back? 

There are no refunds, but if there’s availability you’ll be allowed to transfer to another class in the same year.

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Q: What if I can’t make it to all classes?

To get certified you must attend 100% of the classes. If you don’t, you won't be certified, and no refund will be given. 

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Q: What is your Cancellation / Transfer Policy?
Once you have paid for the course, you have reserved a spot in the class and potentially excluded others from the class. Course fees are nonrefundable and the only refunds we issue are to students that become employees (we issue a partial refund toward the cost of the course).  

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Q: Where is my Lifeguarding: Full Certification class being held? 

Lifeguarding classes are held at the Braun Station East Pool @ 9350 Knighthood, San Antonio, TX  78254 or Ventura Pool @ 7058 Elm Trail #2 San Antonio, TX 78244 or Northampton Pool @ 8265 Manderly Pl., Converse, TX  78109.

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Q: Do I have to buy a textbook? 

No. All required books and supplies are included in the cost of the course.

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Q: Once I finish the class, will I be able to get a job as a Lifeguard?
Yes. The American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification is recognized across the country.  Most facilities accept the ARC certification. Additionally, we have lifeguard jobs available for qualified applicants.

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Q: What do I need to bring to class?

• Picture ID that shows your date of birth

• Swim suit

• Sunglasses & sunscreen, if class is held at an outdoor pool

• Towels – you will want extras

• Warm comfortable clothing and a second set of clothes

• Swim goggles (optional)

• Pen, pencil, highlighter, paper for taking notes

• Money for lunch or bring a sack lunch (there is no refrigerator)

• Drinking water

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Q: What should I expect in class?
It’s a challenging class, just plan accordingly. You’ll work hard, apply yourself and leave tired. You will learn how to respond to Aquatic Emergencies, Perform Water Rescues and prevent injuries. 

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Q: What is the best way to prepare for the prerequisites?
The only real way to prepare for the prerequisite is to swim.  We encourage you to find pool time and practice your swimming, surfacing diving to the bottom of the pool and treading water with hands out of the water prior to class. Details of the exact test are listed with the course description. 

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Q: Should I call someone if I still have a question?

Yes, we'd be happy to speak with you! Call Dee at (210) 822-8100.