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

This skills evaluation is administered at the beginning of the course and is required for certification.  

​

Prerequisite 1: Complete a swim-tread-swim sequence without stopping to rest:

• Jump into the water and totally submerge, resurface then swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both. (Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed.)

• Maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs.

• Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both.

​

Prerequisite 2: 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 – 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, holding the object at the surface with both hands and keeping the face out at or near the surface.

• Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

​

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

The fee for the full course is $250 for non-employees and $150 for employees.

​

Q: Can I choose my pool location/assignment if I come work for you?

If there is a position still available at that pool, absolutely.

​

Q: What is the minimum age to participate in the American Red Cross Lifeguarding Course??​

Participants must have their 15th birthday on or before the end date of the course.

​

Q: What if I don’t pass the class? Do I get my money back? 

No, there are no refunds, 

​

Q: What if I can’t make it to all classes?

To get certified you must attend 100% of the classes. If you don’t, you won't be certified, and no refund will be given. 

​

Q: What is your Cancellation / Transfer Policy? Once you have paid for the lifeguard class, you have reserved your spot in the class.  When the first day of class has begun, there will be no refunds. If the first day of class has not begun, you may move your registration to another lifeguarding class offered by Chicagoland Pool Management in the same year.  We ask that if changing classes, you give a minimum of 2 weeks’ notice.  If 2 weeks' notice is not given, there will be an additional charged for moving classes.  Additionally, cannot guarantee there will be a spot open in another class.

​

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

Call Laura at 630-689-9999 or email to laura.clark@chicagoland-pmg.com

​

Q: Do I have to buy a textbook? 

No. All required books and supplies are included in the cost of the course.

​

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

​

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. 

​

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. 

​

Q: Should I call someone if I still have a question?

Yes, we'd be happy to speak with you! Call Laura at 630-689-9999 or email to laura.clark@chicagoland-pmg.com