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Red Cross Certification

Below are the current Red Cross certifications available regarding upcoming classes.  For questions, please contact Tamara Ritterskamp at tlritterskamp@southern.edu or call 423.236.2857.

Lifeguard Certification

Member Cost: $250 | Non-Member Cost $275

 REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 1, 2026

2 options for In-Person skills training:
Option 1: 
May 17 (12 - 8 p.m.), May 18 & 19 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.)
Option 2: May 20 - 22 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.)

 CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

 Must be present at ALL class sessions for the entire time, NO EXCEPTIONS!

  • Must display maturity and a positive attitude throughout the entire class
  • Must be proficient with all skills taught in class and receive 80% or higher on the written tests and 100% on skills test
  • Money will not be refunded for those who do not pass the course.

 This is a blended learning class with online work to be done before the first day of class. You will not be allowed to do the prerequisite tests or the class if not done before.

 REQUIRED MATERIALS:

  • Photo ID
  • One-piece swimsuit, towel, goggles, class materials, and any other assignments for every class
  • Pre-course assignments (assigned after class registration and payment) 
  • Any other equipment or materials requested by instructor

 PREREQUISITES

 Complete a swim-tread-swim sequence without stopping to rest.

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

 Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds.

  • Starting in the water, swim 20 yards (face in or out of the water, goggles are NOT allowed).
  • Surface dive to a depth of 7-10ft to retrieve a 10lb 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 water without using ladder or steps.
  • 15 years of age (proof of age will be required).

 Requirements

Age: 15+ yrs

Registration Opens March 1 for Lifeguard Certification