The La Porte County Family YMCA La Porte Branch is offering a Lifeguarding certification class starting September 18, 2015. Sign up today and train to be a lifeguard from the swimming experts, the YMCA. Here at the Y, we understand what having secure waterfronts mean to our community. We believe in providing training, resources and support to empower our neighbors to make change, overcome obstacles and contribute to a safer, healthier, happier community so that everyone has the chance to learn, grow and thrive.
This program certifies individuals to become lifeguards using the American Red Cross materials. Advanced swim skills are necessary and participants must be able to pass a swim skill test on September 18th to continue the course. Fee includes Lifeguarding, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, Emergency Oxygen and Bloodborne Pathogens certifications. Candidates should be able to 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. Candidate must also be able to tread water for two minutes using only their legs with their hands placed under their armpits.
Classes will be held on: Monday, September 21, Tuesday, September 22, Thursday, September 24, Sunday, September 27, and Monday, September 28. Participants must attend all sessions to be eligible.
This class will provide entry-level lifeguard participants with the knowledge and skills 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.
The La Porte and Michigan City Elston branches have a limited number of lifeguarding employment positions for qualified applicants that pass the lifeguarding class.
Class fee includes Lifeguard Certification (includes certificate for lifeguarding, First Aid/CPR for professional rescuer / AED valid for 2 years, use of lifeguarding manual, personal CPR rescue mask and whistle.) The certification class fee for members is $175 and $200 for nonmembers. If you have questions please contact Pat Buell in our Aquatics Department at (219) 326-9622 or aquatics@lpymca.org.