COMMUNITY LIFEGUARD INSTRUCTOR COURSE ? For ages 15 and up, the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course is to provide entry-level lifeguard participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies and to provide care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden illnesses until emergency medical services (EMS) personnel take over. Prerequisites: Pass the pre-course swim test consisting of swimming 300 yards continuously demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing. Candidates may swim using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both but swimming on the back or side is not allowed. Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs. Candidates should place their hands under their armpits. Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds- starting in the water, swim 20 yards. The face may be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed. Surface dive, feet - first or head - first, to a depth of 7-10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object. Attend and participate in all sessions. Demonstrate competency in all required skills and activities. Demonstrate competency in all required final rescue skill scenarios.