Joplin Family YMCA

Lifeguard Program

Become a lifeguard through the Joplin Famiy YMCA Lifeguard Program!

This course can certify you as an American Red Cross Lifeguard, in First Aid and in CPR for the Professional Rescuer.  The cost is $160 and includes all course materials, instruction and certification.  The first participant passes the following prerequisites:

1. Swim 300 yards continuously in the following order:

• 25 yards of front crawl using rhythmic breathing and a stabilizing, propellant kick
• 25 yards of breaststroke using proper kick and glide phase
• 250 yards of either front crawl or breaststroke

2. Tread water for 2 minutes, legs only

3. Swim 20 yards using front crawl or breaststroke, surface dive to 7 1/2 feet, retrieve a 10-pound brick, return to the surface and swim 20 yards back to the starting point in less than 1 minute 40 seconds

4. Attend all scheduled times and be at least 15 years old

Duration of American Red Cross Certifications:

Lifeguard/First Aid = 2 years
CPR for the Professional Rescuer = 2 years

Cost: $160

$80 deposit is due at time of registration and is not refundable or transferable.  If you do not pass the prerequisites, you may still take the certification course for CPR for the Professional Rescuer.  The remaining $80 is due after prerequisites are met to complete the course.

What to bring:

proof of age, swimsuit - one piece only, goggles, towel, pen, pencil, highlighter and notebook