Lifeguard Training in Illinois

Throughout our Illinois lifeguarding training you'll learn how to recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies, but you'll also deepen your understanding of how and why such emergencies occur. With expert instruction, scenario-based learning, and a blend of written, lecture, and hands-on training you'll gain the information, skills and confidence needed to not only help prevent aquatic emergencies, but respond to them calmly and professionally.

At the American Red Cross, we make it easy to pursue your lifeguard certification. With in-person and blended learning classes, our Illinois lifeguard training program gives you flexible options that are designed to suit your schedule – and the way you learn. Plus, with experienced, compassionate instructors and the latest information, you'll receive the training you need to achieve your goals.

When you sign up for lifeguarding training in Illinois, you can opt to further expand your skillset with a wide range of classes that focus on everything from aquatic instructor training, to waterfront (non-surf), waterpark and shallow water lifeguarding. This way, you can gain entry to jobs that may have previously been out of reach. Explore the classes available in your area, and get the certifications you need to meet your goals.

To complement our Illinois lifeguard classes, we offer all students access to our lifeguarding manual. Created specifically to help our students refer to and retain the information they've learned in class, our manual can help keep your skills and your memory fresh during class and between certifications. The Red Cross lifeguarding manual is one part of our program and does not by itself, deliver complete and comprehensive training.

In Illinois, lifeguard recertification courses are available from the American Red Cross. Designed to help you update your skills, learn new techniques, and refresh your memory, our lifeguarding renewal classes are open to those whose certification is still valid (or within 30 days of expiring), and will allow you to continue to work without a lapse in verification. Once successfully completed, our lifeguard renewal classes will extend your certification by two years. Find a class in your area.

The Red Cross offers Lifeguard Management courses in Illinois that will empower you to make your facility safer. Throughout this one-day course you'll learn how to effectively hire, train, and supervise lifeguards, build team relationships, and create an emergency response team. In addition, you'll gain information on injury prevention and risk management – which can help you keep your staff and your patrons safe.

Note: The course is compliant with the newly released Model Aquatic Health Code.

After completing your Illinois lifeguarding certification, the Red Cross can help you expand your skills and your goals. With classes available in a wide range of aquatics fields, plus first aid, CPR, AED use, EMT courses, and more, our knowledgeable instructors can help you become a more capable employee, friend, neighbor and citizen who can provide the right level of care when it's needed most. Explore all of the classes available in your area, and find new ways to grow.