Are you interested in an opportunity to become a certified lifeguard? The La Porte County Family YMCA’s La Porte Branch is offering American Red Cross lifeguard certification starting October 7, 2016. Sign up today and train to be a lifeguard with the swimming experts, the YMCA.
This program certifies individuals to become lifeguards using American Red Cross materials. Our highly qualified instructor will help entry-level lifeguard participants gain the knowledge and skills necessary to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies. Individuals will also learn how to provide care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden illnesses until emergency medical services (EMS) personnel take over.
Those who successfully complete the class will receive Lifeguard (for Pools), CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, Emergency Oxygen and Bloodborne Pathogens certifications. In addition, the La Porte and Michigan City Elston branches have a limited number of lifeguarding employment positions for qualified applicants that pass the lifeguarding class. If you commit to work for the Y you will only pay the American Red Cross $35.00 administration fee. Please contact the YMCA for further information.
Because advanced swimming skills are required, participants must pass a swim test on, October 5th from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. to continue the course. Candidates should be able to swim 300 yards continuously, demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing. They may use front crawl, breaststroke or both, but swimming on the back or side is not allowed. Candidates must also be able to tread water for two minutes using only their legs with their hands placed under their armpits. Swim goggles are permitted.
Classes will be held, Friday October 7th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Saturday October 8th from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. and Sunday October 9th from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Participants must attend all sessions. The cost is $175 for members and $200 for nonmembers and includes use of CPR manual, personal CPR rescue mask and whistle. There is also a $35.00 administrative fee paid to the Red Cross, If you have questions, please contact Ben Fout at the La Porte branch at (219) 325-9622 or Pat Buell at the La Porte Branch at (219) 326-9622, or email aquatics@lpymca.org.
