Become A Westfield Area YMCA Lifeguard And Keep Your Community Safe Around Water

The Westfield Area YMCA is providing teens ages 16+ and adults the opportunity to gain the knowledge, skills and certification to be a lifeguard and professional rescuer.

The Y Lifeguard certification is a nationally recognized certification for clear water (pools) and open water (lakes/beaches) facilities. The course covers safety skills, accident prevention, scanning, guarding techniques, emergency systems, rescue skills, first aid in aquatic environments, spinal injury management, open water dangers, legal responsibilities, pool maintenance basics, and information on how to get a job as a lifeguard. Learn how to anticipate and prevent problems before they occur and take action to help those in danger in pool, lake, river, surf, and waterpark environments. This Course also includes American Safety and Health Institute’s (ASHI) CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen Administration certification.

Before registering for the course, the candidate must first pass the physical skills test and be at least 16 years old by the last date of the course. This pre-test will test swimming skills and endurance. Candidates should be familiar with the Front Crawl (Freestyle), Breaststroke, Sidestroke and treading water without their hands. Candidates may sign up for any physical skills that falls before the course they wish to attend.

Physical skills test dates are offered at the Main Y facility during October-December. Please check the website below for the dates and times. Those that qualify can register to take the Y Lifeguard Certification Course on Sunday, October 23rd, October 30th, November 6th and November 13th from Noon – 8:00 pm or on Sunday, December 27th, 28th and 29th from 10:00 am – 8:00 p.m. Candidates must attend all class sessions. Classes will take place at the Main Y facility, 220 Clark Street unless otherwise noted.

Whether you are looking for a part-time or a year-round job as an aquatic professional or professional rescuer, the Westfield Area YMCA lifeguard program is the place to begin! When you choose to become a lifeguard you are taking a stand to be a lifesaver, to protect others and to serve your community. To register for the physical skills test, visit the Y Welcome Center or contact Rob Faggiano at (908) 233-2700 x276, rfaggiano@westfieldynj.org.

The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Visit www.westfieldynj.org to learn more about Westfield Area Y programs. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

Pictured here from left to right: Westfield Area YMCA Lifeguards Steven Mezzomo, Jessica Gonzalez and John McGuire.