2024 Lifeguarding Program

The Red Cross Lifeguarding Program Update is now available!

Being prepared to prevent, protect and respond to aquatic emergencies demands a modernized training program based on latest science. To access the updated resources for the Lifeguarding and CPR for Professional Rescuers (CPRO) r.24 release, existing customers can log into the Red Cross Learning Center.

Longfellow and Clawdette from Longfellow's WHALE Tales

Start teaching Longfellow's WHALE Tales Water Safety for Children program today!

Lifeguard VR goggles

Lifeguard Virtual Reality Training is Here!

As part of the r.24 Lifeguarding Program update, the Red Cross is excited to announce its award-winning Virtual Reality (VR) Surveillance Simulation. This optional training method puts participants into realistic aquatic environment, tasking trainees to identify drowning persons.

Red Cross brochures - CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers, Lifeguard Virtual Reality Training App, Lifeguarding, and Learn-to-Swim Water Safety Program

Aquatic & Water Safety Courses and Services Brochure Downloads

American Red Cross offers a comprehensive portfolio of aquatic and lifeguarding training courses to help ensure you can respond with confidence when lives are on the line.

Browse Brochures

Download a full list of courses here. Download the Red Cross Training Services Product Portfolio Brochure PDF

Elevate Your Training

Expert training to support your aquatic programs with enhanced learning tools and updated teaching methods.

  • Red Cross lifeguards at aquatics facility.

    Lifeguards

  • Certified Red Cross lifeguard receiving red rescue tube.

    Instructors

  • Certified aquatics facility operator with Red Cross lifeguard.

    Facilities

Image of two lifeguards performing CPR on a CPR manikin in the grass.

Aquatics Training Provider Information


Become a Training Provider

Learn how you can teach and deliver Red Cross education and training programs.

Already a Training Provider?

Learn how to easily bridge your certifications and get started using flexible Red Cross programs.

CONTACT US

Flexible Training Options for Aquatic & Water Safety

We can customize the perfect solution for you.

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Blended Learning

Online learning taken anywhere/anytime followed by a skills session.

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Instructor-Led

Entire in-person course taught by an experienced instructor.

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Recertification

Courses that review skills and content prior to testing.

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Online Only

Self-paced online learning and development courses.

Aquatics Best Practices and Guidelines

American Red Cross Aquatics Guidelines and Best Practices

The 2024 American Red Cross Aquatics Guidelines and Best Practices for Lifeguarding Database provides users with easy-to-understand explanations of Red Cross scientific reviews, aquatic statements and best practices. Topics include definitions of water competency, circle of drowning prevention and guidance for handling a drowning emergency and more.

Visit the Aquatics Guidelines and Best Practices Database

Feel Confident in Evidence-based Science

Feel Confident in Evidence-based Science

Behind every American Red Cross training program stands a team of experts, the Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council, ensuring what is taught is based on the latest and best in emergency science.

The Scientific Advisory Council work includes:

  • Circle of Drowning Prevention
  • Definition of Water Competency
  • In-Water Resuscitation
  • Jellyfish Stings
  • Lightning Safety for Pools
  • Minimum Age for Swimming Lessons
  • Voluntary Hyperventilation Preceding Underwater Swimming (Hypoxic Blackout)
  • Water Temperature for Aquatics

Read more

Grow Your Business Using Red Cross Training

Promote your classes on redcross.org to millions of customers looking for training.

“Not only is the American Red Cross the ‘gold standard’ for lifeguard training nationwide, but it also provides the most comprehensive course materials and resources available to students, trainers and aquatic professionals and service providers.”

Michael Brown
The Pool Management Group

Recommended Training Products for Aquatic Facilities

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Manual

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Manual

Water Safety Instructor Candidate Kit

Water Safety Instructor Candidate Kit

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor's Manual

Lifeguarding Instructor's Manual

Jaw Thrust AED, CPR & BLS Manikin Instructor Starter Kit

Jaw Thrust AED, CPR & BLS Manikin Instructor Starter Kit

Three Joliett lifeguards receiving the Red Cross Lifesaving Award

Drowning Prevention Education and Resources

Drowning is a leading cause of death for children. Together we can change that. What is your community’s level of water competency? Would they be able to make a difference like the two friends in this video who put their lifeguard training into action?


Learn more

Image of three individuals holding lifeguard pool rescue tubes during a Red Cross Lifeguard training.

Celebrating 100 Years of Water Safety

The Red Cross Centennial Campaign helps millions of kids, teens and adults learn how to swim and become lifeguards and instructors so that the water can be a safer place for everyone. Join us as we champion water safety for the next 100 Years.


Join us

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