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

1. You must be able to swim 150 yards continuously using either breaststroke or freestyle, backstroke is not permitted, however you can use goggles.

2. Participants must be able to tread water for two minutes continuously, using only their legs. Hands must be tucked under their armpits. Participants heads must remain above the surface of the water.

3. The instructor will place a 10-lb. rubber brick at the bottom of the pool (about 7-10 ft. in depth) Participants will have 1 minute and 40 seconds to swim from the shallow end of the pool, to the deep end, and retrieve the rubber brick. Participants must swim back, holding the brick with both hands, while keeping their face at the surface of the pool. 

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

The fee for the course is $225.  

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

Yes. If you complete your online training before your first shift and work to the end of the summer.  

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Q: What is the minimum age to become a lifeguard?​

Participants must have their 15th birthday on or before the end date of the course, however you must be 16 years old before receiving your Metro Louisville Lifeguard License.

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

Lifeguarding classes are held at the Blairwood Tennis, Swim, and Fitness Club.  9300 Blairwood Road Louisville, KY 40222.

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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 contact someone if I still have a question?

Yes, Please contact J.C. at (502) 394-9759 or jc.barnett@kentuckiana-pmg.com.