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We offer the lowest price guarantee for individual and group training that can be completed anytime, anywhere. Get certified right away with the support of employers and government agencies nationwide.
The American Lifeguard Association® (ALA) is a nationally recognized educational organization that has been training and certifying lifeguards for over 30 years. Supported by nonprofit organizations like Global Lifeguards and the Swimming Pool and Spa Foundation, ALA has become a leading authority in aquatic safety, offering certification programs that meet the highest standards in the lifeguarding profession.
Since its inception, ALA has trained over 250,000 individuals and has played a pivotal role in developing health and safety protocols for swimming pools, beaches, and waterparks. The association works closely with employers and government agencies to ensure that its certification programs align with OSHA requirements and findings from the U.S. Lifeguard Standards Coalition. These certifications not only meet regulatory standards but also equip lifeguards with essential skills to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies.
The American Lifeguard Association has been listed on the CDC Healthy Swimming website over the years. Both the U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. General Service Administration (GSA) have determined that ALA offers Lifeguard certification programs equivalent to those of the American Red Cross. Since the early 1990s, ALA has ensured all its training programs meet Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements.
Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, the U.S. Department of Labor, as the federal Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), has confirmed that ALA meets national lifeguard training and certification standards. The American Lifeguard Association is one of a select few national training entities recognized by the United States Government to meet these federal requirements. Consequently, ALA certifications meet lifeguard training standards in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories.
The certification programs offered by ALA are comprehensive, covering essential skills such as CPR, AED, and First Aid. These are critical skills for lifeguards, who are often the first responders to emergencies at aquatic facilities. The training incorporates the latest Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) science, ensuring that participants are equipped with up-to-date knowledge and techniques. This scientific foundation is key to preparing lifeguards for real-world scenarios where informed decision-making can save lives.
ALA also emphasizes environmental stewardship. Through initiatives like the “Think Blue Too” movement, ALA promotes the protection of beaches, waterways, and ecosystems. By educating lifeguards and the public on environmental issues, ALA helps preserve these environments for future generations.
Media recognition has played a significant role in raising awareness of ALA’s efforts. The association’s views on lifeguard safety and environmental issues have been featured in major media outlets, including NBC, ABC, CBS, Good Housekeeping, The New York Times, and The Washington Post. ALA’s public service announcements and interviews help reinforce the importance of aquatic safety and environmental consciousness on a national level.
The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) has made significant strides in promoting aquatic safety and lifeguard training throughout the United States and beyond since 1990. With a longstanding mission to develop skilled, knowledgeable lifeguards, the ALA has trained over 250,000 individuals, providing them with critical skills in water safety, first aid, and emergency response. This expansive training effort has helped ensure safety standards at swimming pools, beaches, and waterparks and has contributed to a strong network of qualified aquatic professionals.
ALA’s certification programs emphasize comprehensive training in lifeguarding, CPR, AED use, and First Aid, equipping participants with essential life-saving skills. The training process incorporates the latest Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) science to keep participants up to date on advancements in emergency response. Through these lifeguard classes, individuals are trained not only to respond to emergencies but to proactively prevent incidents by understanding environmental risks and employing vigilant monitoring techniques. This approach ensures that ALA-certified lifeguards are prepared to handle a variety of situations effectively, using skills that align with industry best practices.
ALA works closely with employers, government agencies, and regulatory bodies to ensure its programs meet established standards. In fact, ALA’s certifications meet the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements and the U.S. Lifeguard Standards Coalition’s guidelines, making ALA a trusted name in the field of aquatic safety. The U.S. Department of Labor and the General Services Administration (GSA) have determined that ALA offers certification programs equivalent to those of the American Red Cross, underscoring the association’s rigorous approach to lifeguard training.
The American Lifeguard Association has been listed on the CDC Healthy Swimming website over the years. Additionally, it mandates that employers comply with CDC Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) standards. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, the U.S. Department of Labor, as the federal Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), has confirmed that ALA’s certification programs meet national standards for lifeguard training and certification. This federal recognition places ALA among a select group of national training entities acknowledged by the United States Government for meeting stringent safety requirements. Consequently, ALA’s certification programs fulfill federal requirements for lifeguard training and certification across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories.
Lifeguard recertification is a crucial aspect of maintaining competency and ensuring lifeguards are prepared for the demands of their roles. ALA offers recertification courses that allow lifeguards to refresh their skills and stay informed on the latest safety protocols. The recertification process reviews key components from initial training, reinforcing the principles of CPR, AED, First Aid, and water rescue. By regularly recertifying, lifeguards demonstrate their ongoing commitment to safety and stay current with any updates in training methodologies.
To further support lifeguard proficiency, ALA emphasizes the importance of in-service training sessions. These sessions provide lifeguards with opportunities to refine their skills, engage in realistic emergency scenarios, and receive feedback from peers and supervisors. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, ALA encourages lifeguards to remain vigilant and prepared for any situation.
It’s imperative for employers to assess your abilities and conduct in-water testing as part of their hiring process, aligning with the requirements of the CDC Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC). Our program equips you with the necessary foundation and knowledge, while employers are responsible for verifying your skills through practical evaluations. This partnership ensures that certified lifeguards not only hold credentials but are also consistently able to perform lifesaving tasks effectively in real-world settings.
Environmental Stewardship and the “Think Blue Too” Movement
Beyond training lifeguards, ALA is also committed to environmental stewardship through initiatives like the “Think Blue Too” movement. This program promotes environmental awareness among lifeguards and the general public, encouraging the protection of beaches, waterways, and aquatic ecosystems. By integrating environmental education into its programs, ALA aims to inspire lifeguards to become advocates for clean and safe aquatic environments.
The “Think Blue Too” initiative is an extension of ALA’s holistic approach to aquatic safety, recognizing that a healthy environment is essential to safe swimming. The initiative encourages lifeguards to reduce pollution, protect marine habitats, and educate others about sustainable practices. This environmental focus not only preserves natural resources but also enhances the overall safety and enjoyment of recreational water activities.
Media coverage has been instrumental in raising awareness of ALA’s work and the importance of aquatic safety. ALA’s perspectives on lifeguarding, environmental issues, and the role of lifeguards as first responders have been featured in prominent media outlets, including NBC, ABC, CBS, Good Housekeeping, The New York Times, and The Washington Post. Through these platforms, ALA reaches a wide audience with vital information on water safety, emergency preparedness, and environmental conservation.
In addition to news features, ALA uses public service announcements (PSAs) and interviews to share its message on a national level. These media engagements emphasize the importance of well-trained lifeguards, safe swimming practices, and environmental consciousness, reinforcing ALA’s mission to make aquatic environments safer for everyone.
For individuals interested in building careers in aquatic safety, ALA provides various pathways to advancement. The association offers specialized courses and certifications for lifeguards seeking roles in leadership or instruction. By fostering professional growth within the lifeguard community, ALA contributes to a skilled and knowledgeable workforce that is equipped to meet the evolving challenges of aquatic safety.
ALA’s commitment to education extends beyond initial certification and recertification. The association regularly updates its curriculum to reflect changes in ECC science, OSHA requirements, and industry trends, ensuring that lifeguards receive the most relevant and effective training available. This focus on lifelong learning and adaptability strengthens ALA’s role as a leader in aquatic safety education.
A hallmark of ALA is its commitment to delivering high-quality training. These programs are developed by recognized experts in the lifeguarding profession, ensuring that the content is rigorous and up-to-date. ALA adheres to a strict code of ethics, balancing theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
The ALA certification program is designed to be flexible and accessible. Our course provides standardized, instructor-led video instructions for those seeking lifeguard certification in a blended learning environment. Participants have the flexibility to complete the coursework at their own pace and according to their schedule. This format enables employers to assess skills and also encourages ongoing skill development and practice through regular in-service training sessions. Additionally, our program mandates that employers adhere to the CDC’s Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) standards, which includes conducting comprehensive pre-service and in-service training evaluations.
Employers play a critical role in ALA’s training process. Under Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) guidelines, employers are required to conduct pre-service evaluations and in-service training to ensure lifeguards remain proficient in their skills. This ongoing training is essential for maintaining high safety standards in aquatic environments, and ALA’s programs are designed to support these efforts.
ALA recognizes the importance of ongoing training and certification renewal. Lifeguards must recertify every two years, and ALA offers convenient programs to ensure lifeguards remain current with the latest safety practices. Recertification not only reinforces the skills learned but also provides updates on national safety standards.
In addition to lifeguard training, ALA offers specialized courses for pool operators, further expanding its impact on aquatic safety. These courses are tailored to meet the specific needs of professionals working in the aquatic industry and address the unique challenges they face.
For over three decades, the American Lifeguard Association has made significant contributions to community safety through rigorous training programs, public health initiatives, and environmental advocacy. By offering high-quality certification programs and collaborating with employers and regulatory agencies, ALA helps ensure that lifeguards are well-prepared to protect lives.
The skills taught in our national program reflect ECC science and findings from the United States Lifeguard Standards Coalition Report. With our training program, you won't have to wait for a group class. Our programs can be completed anywhere and are utilized by individuals, schools, universities, and community pools both in the U.S. and abroad.
ALA’s training includes a blend of theoretical and practical skills, covering areas such as CPR, AED, First Aid, injury prevention, and rescue techniques. Lifeguards are not only trained in rescue methods but also in critical thinking and decision-making, helping them respond effectively to unexpected situations. The program emphasizes hands-on training, giving participants the confidence and experience necessary to manage real-world emergencies. By the end of the course, lifeguards are equipped to handle situations such as drowning, spinal injuries, cardiac emergencies, and more.
The American Lifeguard Referral Program The American Lifeguard referral program is simple to use. Just refer individuals to our lifeguard training program. When they email us your name and email address on the same day they register, you get cash! You will receive $50 for every referral through the end of the year. There is no limit to the number of referrals you can make!
The ALA’s commitment to high-quality training also extends to the ethical standards upheld throughout the program. Lifeguards are taught to prioritize safety, professional conduct, and continuous improvement in their roles. Certification is valid for two years, but the ALA encourages ongoing education and recertification to ensure that lifeguards remain proficient in their skills. Additionally, employers play a vital role in the continued development of lifeguards. The ALA supports the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) requirements, which call for pre-service evaluations and ongoing in-service training to keep lifeguards’ skills sharp. By providing flexible, high-quality training programs, the American Lifeguard Association continues to lead the way in ensuring that lifeguards are fully prepared to protect public safety in aquatic environments.
The skills taught in our national program reflect ECC science and findings from the United States Lifeguard Standards Coalition Report. With our training program, you won't have to wait for a group class. Our programs can be completed anywhere and are utilized by individuals, schools, universities, and community pools both in the U.S. and abroad.
The mission of the American Lifeguard Association is to improve the quality and accessibility of health and safety programs to the public.
We proudly use Universal Lifeguard Certification (ULC) to verify the credentials of ALA lifeguards. ULC allows lifeguards to manage all their professional credentials online, ensuring easy access to records for timely renewal.
The American Lifeguard Association provides better management for your classes through the ULC system, which allows instructors to update training records and manage their students’ credentials effectively.
The ALA is a national educational association that has received support from both the Swimming Pool and Spa Association and Global Lifeguards, a nonprofit organization. Together, we have certified over 250,000 individuals and saved countless lives over the past quarter of a century.
Our certification program meets OSHA requirements for health and safety training, regulatory licensing, and accreditation requirements. The American Lifeguard Association has been recognized by various health organizations, including the CDC.
The ALA promotes safe and enjoyable aquatic environments through public service announcements and media interviews, contributing to discussions on aquatic safety and environmental concerns. including the CDC.
For more information on our national training programs and to enroll, please select “Courses Offered” at the top left of our home page. If you have questions, contact us through our Contact Us form.
We offer the lowest price guarantee for individual and group training that can be completed anytime, anywhere. Get certified right away with the support of employers and government agencies nationwide.
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