The American Red Cross Shallow Water Prerequisites

To enroll in the Shallow Water Lifeguarding course, you must be at least 15 years old before the last scheduled class session. 

To participate in the course, you must be able to pass a prerequisite skills evaluation by doing the following:

1. Swim 100 yards continuously demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing. You 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.
2. Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs. You should place your hands under your armpits.
3. Complete a timed event within 50 seconds.
   1. Starting in the water, swim 20 yards using the front crawl or breaststroke. Your face may be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed.
   2. Submerge to a depth of 4 to 5 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object. Return to the surface and walk or swim 20 yards to return to the starting point with both hands holding the object at the surface of the water.
   3. Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

To successfully complete the course, you must attend the entire course, participate in all skill sessions/ drills, activities and scenarios, demonstrate competency in all required skills and scenarios, and pass the final written exams with a minimum grade of 80 percent. 

The practice sessions will require some strenuous physical activity. You are encouraged to check with your health care professional before participating in the practice sessions. If you have a medical condition or disability that might prevent you from participating in the activities, or have questions about being able to fully participate in the Shallow Water Lifeguarding course, please contact me to discuss this before the course begins. 

Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive an American Red Cross certificate for Shallow Water Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED, valid for 2 years.