​NJ Lifeguard

NJ Lifeguard is the premier service provider for American Red Cross Lifeguard/Waterfront/CPR Training delivery certification and recertification in New Jersey (NJ).  

How old do I have to be to become a certified American Red Cross lifeguard?​

Student must complete their 15th birthday on or before the end date of the course.



What prerequisites are needed to become a lifeguard?

Swim 300 yards continuously demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing. Candidates may swim using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both but swimming on the back or side is not allowed. Swim goggles may be used.



Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs.  Candidates should place their hands under the armpits.
 

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 to 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 with both hands holding the object and keeping the face at or near the surface so they are able to get a breath. Candidates should not swim the
distance under water. Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.



Do you offer private or semi-private classes?

Yes we do; however, specific terms and conditions apply.  Please call or email for information.



What curriculum is offered?

We offer the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Course.   All certifications are valid for two (2) years.   After the initial certification, Lifeguards who wish to continue to be certified must take a "Lifeguard Recertification" Class.



What happens if I miss a class?

Students are required to attend all classes.   However, we understand at times that students may have an unavoidable scheduling conflict, sudden illness, etc.   Students will be given a couple of different options on how they can make up any missed class(es).   The student should contact the course instructor as soon as possible to discuss this.



How do we differ from other Lifeguarding Programs?

We offer a unique experience.  Our instructors have been training Lifeguards for more than a decade.  Many of the staff are prehospital, experienced healthcare providers (EMTs, Paramedics, First Responders), or Swim Coaches/Teachers who foster an encouraging and entertaining learning environment.   Simply put, if you know of any students/parents that have been through of our program(s), just ask them!  They'll tell you!   We are very proud of the reputation, and quality of the courses we provide.



What certifications are awarded to students who successfully complete a Lifeguarding course?

One certification is issued. The certification name is Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED and is valid for 2 years from the date of completion. For the Shallow Water Lifeguarding course, the certification name is Shallow Water Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED and is valid for 2 years.



How do I pass/complete the Lifeguard Training course?

Students must attend and participate in all class sessions;

Demonstrate competency in all required skills and activities;
Demonstrate competency in all required final rescue skill scenarios; and,
Pass all written examinations with minimum grades of 80 percent.

 

Refunds and Cancellations

Refunds are issued if students cancel in writing 24 hours PRIOR to the start of the program (minus a $20 administrative fee).  Refunds are not issued for cancellations less than 24 hours.   Refunds are not issued if students fail to attend, complete, or pass the program.



If a participant is already certified in CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and Healthcare Providers, is he or she still required to participate in the CPR portions of a Lifeguarding or Lifeguarding Review course?

Yes. Lifeguarding participants must successfully complete all lessons of the Lifeguarding course or Lifeguarding Review course. The CPR/AED portions of the Lifeguarding courses are fully incorporated within the Lifeguarding course. The certification for the Lifeguarding course is one certification that includes professional rescuer CPR as a part of it. There is no separate certification for the CPR portion of the Lifeguarding course.



Is there a crossover course for basic-level lifeguards certified/licensed in lifeguard training by another training agency, such as the YMCA, Ellis and Associates or StarGuard?

No. Individuals must successfully complete the full Lifeguarding course to receive certification in American Red Cross Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED.

 

Do you offer CPR classes for public schools?

On August 20th, 2014, New Jersey State officials signed into law, Bill A2072, requiring all New Jersey public high school students to be trained in CPR/AED as part of their graduation requirements. The provisions of this law are effective with the 2014-2015 grade nine class.  We offer flexible schedules and options to fit all school district needs and budgets.  Please contact us to discuss!



An added benefit - Lifeguarding Jobs!

Employers and aquatic companies/organizations contact us frequently throughout the year looking to hire lifeguards.   We (and former students) post all these possible employment opportunities to our private social media web site, which is accessible only to students/their families upon completion of one of our courses.  We can also try to recommend a few locations where Lifeguards can make inquires regarding possible employment opportunities.



Can you train my day camp or summer camp staff at our location?

Absolutely!  Visit our Courses Delivered  to You section for details of programs that we offer.  We have great experience in training summer and day camp staff in preparation for summer camp season!  

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