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

1. You must be able to swim 150 yards continuously using either breaststroke or freestyle, backstroke is not permitted, however you can use goggles.

2. Participants must be able to tread water for two minutes continuously, using only their legs. Hands must be tucked under their armpits. Participants heads must remain above the surface of the water.

3. The instructor will place a 10-lb. rubber brick at the bottom of the pool (about 7-10 ft. in depth) Participants will have 1 minute and 40 seconds to swim from the shallow end of the pool, to the deep end, and retrieve the rubber brick. Participants must swim back, holding the brick with both hands, while keeping their face at the surface of the pool. 

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

The fee for the course is $300. If you come to work for us, the cost will be reduced to $250. 

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Q: I don't work for you yet, but would like to. Will I still get the employee discount on the course fee?

Yes. When you're hired, we'll issue you a credit refunding you back the employee discount amount.  

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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.

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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.

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

There are no refunds, but if there’s availability you’ll be allowed to transfer to another class in the same year.

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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. 

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Q: What is your Cancellation / Transfer Policy?
Once you have paid for the course, you have reserved a spot in the class and potentially excluded others from the class. Course fees are nonrefundable and the only refunds we issue are to students that become employees (we issue a partial refund toward the cost of the course).  

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

Please look on the sign-up form or contact us at hr@columbus-pmg.com.

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Q: Do I have to buy a textbook? 

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

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Q: Once I finish the class, will I be able to get a job as a Lifeguard?
Yes. The American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification is recognized across the country.  Most facilities accept the ARC certification. Additionally, we have lifeguard jobs available for qualified applicants.

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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

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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. 

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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. 

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Q: What should I do if I still have a question?

Yes, we'd be happy to speak with you! please contact us at hr@columbus-pmg.com.