2026 Lifeguard Certification & Recertification Course (Class is limited to 15)
Are you ready to make a difference this summer? Become a certified lifeguard and learn skills to help keep your community's pools safe, comfortable and FUN for everyone!
Registration is online at http://playbgpr.bgky.org
BEFORE CHECKOUT: If you are working for Russell Sims Aquatic Center for the 2026 season, please contact BGPR at 270-393-3249 before completing your transaction.
The American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Class will teach participants the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies. Upon successful completion, participants will be certified in American Red Cross Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED Professional Rescuer certifications. Anyone desiring employment as a lifeguard at Russell Sims Aquatic Center must complete this certification.
Training Includes: Standard First Aid, CPR for Professional Rescuers and Lifeguard Training.
Participants must:
- Be 15 years old by the last day of class
- Swim 300 yards continuously using front crawl and breaststroke
- Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs
- Swim 20 yards, retrieve a 10 pound object from 10 feet deep, swim 20 yards back to the starting point with the object and exit the water within 1:40.
- Attend all classes within the session.
- Complete an online component that must be reviewed prior to class dates.
Class Meeting Dates:
Class 1: March 12-15
Class 2: March 19-22
Class 3: March 26-29
Class 4: April 16-19
Class 5: April 23-26
Class 6: April 30-May 3
Class 7: May 14-17
Times and Locations: Thursdays, 5pm-9pm @ BGHS Natatorium, 1801 Rockingham Lane
Fridays, 5 pm-9 pm @ BGHS Natatorium, 1801 Rockingham Lane
Saturdays, 8 am-5 pm @ both locations-Bowling Green Parks & Recreation, 225 East Third Avenue and BGHS Natatorium, 1801 Rockingham Lane
Sundays, 1 pm-5 pm @ BGHS Natatorium, 1801 Rockingham Lane
Certification Fee: $240
Recertification Fee: $85
To apply for a waterpark position go to https://www.bgky.org/hr/jobs