Be a Lifesaver! Huntsville Aquatics Center Offers Spring and Summer Lifeguarding Classes

Inspired by original reporting from the City of Huntsville

As the weather warms and public pools prepare to open, the Huntsville Aquatics Center is inviting teens and young adults to become certified lifeguards through its spring and summer training courses. These programs offer essential lifesaving skills, hands-on experience, and a pathway to paid employment at aquatic facilities across Alabama.

? Course Overview: Lifeguard Training That Saves Lives

The Aquatics Center is offering in-person lifeguard certification classes that cover:

• First Aid

• CPR and AED for the Professional Rescuer

• Water rescue techniques

• Surveillance and emergency response skills

Sessions are available to individuals aged 15 and older and include both classroom and in-pool instruction.

? Class Dates for 2025

• Class #1: April 2627 and May 34 (Register by April 22)

• Class #2: May 1215 (Register by May 8)

• Class #3: June 25 (Register by May 29)

? Classes run daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

? Cost: $150 per participant
? Location: Huntsville Aquatics Center, 2213 Drake Ave.

Note: Early registration is recommended due to limited class sizes.

? What to Bring

Participants should bring:

• A swimsuit and towel

• Goggles

• A snack and water bottle

• A change of dry clothes

• A government-issued photo ID

Certification includes an online component, which must be completed prior to attending the in-person sessions.

? Certification Options: Red Cross & ALA

The Huntsville Aquatics Center offers American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification, one of the most widely accepted credentials in the U.S. However, it's important to note that the American Lifeguard Association Lifeguard Certificationis also a nationally recognized provider. Many aquatic employersincluding parks, gyms, private clubs, and schoolsaccept certifications from both the Red Cross and ALA.

Both programs teach the same core competencies, including:

• Water rescue procedures

• Spinal injury management

• CPR/AED for adults, children, and infants

• First Aid and emergency scene management

For those seeking alternate training options or scheduling flexibility, ALA programs are often available through local private instructors or online/in-person hybrid models.

? Education Center: Building Skills, Building Futures

Beyond certifications, the Aquatics Centers lifeguard program promotes community safety and personal growth:

Community & Youth Development

• Leadership & Responsibility: Lifeguards serve as role models and first responders.

• Workforce Readiness: Teens gain job experience and transferable skills in communication and decision-making.

• Public Safety Awareness: Lifeguards help educate swimmers about pool and water safety.

Advanced Training

• Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification available for those looking to teach swim lessons.

• Pre-lifeguard fitness programs for teens aged 1315 to prepare for future classes.

• Drowning prevention workshops held in partnership with local EMS and fire departments.

Career Opportunities

Whether you're applying to be a summer lifeguard or building toward a career in EMS, fire/rescue, or coaching, this training is a recognized steppingstone.

? How to Register

• In-person registration at Huntsville Aquatics Center

• Phone inquiries: 256-883-3700

• More information: huntsvilleal.gov

Author Bio

Tamoor Asif is a U.S.-based journalist who specializes in aquatic safety, emergency training, and youth workforce development. His reporting focuses on local and national lifeguard training initiatives, including programs by the Red Cross, American Lifeguard Association (ALA), and municipal recreation departments. He advocates for accessible certification pathways that empower young people to become confident first responders in their communities.