Lifeguard Class in Benton County Washington

Lifeguard class in Benton County Washington: common questions

Where can I take lifeguard training in Benton County, Washington?

American Aquatics and Safety Training runs blended lifeguard certification for candidates across Benton County. The county's largest communities are Kennewick, Richland and West Richland, and most candidates travel from those areas for the in-water portion. Coursework is completed online first, then the rescue skills, CPR/AED and First Aid sessions are done in person with an instructor.

How much does lifeguard certification cost in Benton County?

Full certification costs $195.00, packaging water rescue, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid. Component renewals are cheaper: $25.00 for standalone CPR/AED, $19.99 for standalone First Aid.

Will I be guarding a pool or open water in Benton County?

Both. The recorded venues in Benton County split between pools and open water. Named sites in Benton County include Sand Dune Beach, Pelican Bay and Hills West Reacreational Club. Whether a certification is accepted for waterfront or surf positions depends on the employer and, in some states, on state rules, so check the posting before you apply. Surf beaches often run their own qualifying test.

How old do I need to be to become a lifeguard in Washington?

Pool employers generally want candidates to be 15 by the final day of the course, while waterfront and beach roles usually start at 16. Some employers in Benton County set the bar higher, so read the job posting before booking.

What swim test do I have to pass?

Three elements: a continuous 300 yard swim, 2 minutes treading with legs only, and recovering a 10-pound brick from 7 to 10 feet and bringing it back. This happens at the very start of the in-person session, so come ready to swim.

Which communities in Benton County does training cover?

Candidates commonly travel from Kennewick (85,158 residents), Richland (63,757 residents) and West Richland (18,456 residents). Kennewick is the largest community in the county, and certification is approved in almost every state in the US and CMAHC approved, so it stays valid if you take a job in a neighboring county or another state.

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