American Red Cross Lifeguards - Prepared to Prevent, Protect, Respond.

The Red Cross Lifeguarding Curriculum has been updated

What’s Changed in 2024

Our courses and products have been revitalized and are the most scientifically reviewed programs.

More Active Hands‑On Learning

New skills practice and evaluation for conducting surveillance and scanning

Refreshed Course Materials

Comprehensive Instructor and participant manuals + waterproof Instructor deck book

Enhanced Surveillance and
VR Simulation

Interactive videos and activities to learn surveillance skills + optional VR App

Blended Learning Recertification Courses

Adaptive learning offers pre‑assessment to customize learning

Complimentary Participant eBook

Interactive digital eBook to reinforce and enhance learning

Online Instructor Update Course

Self-paced interactive online course designed for Instructors to teach r.24 program

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Training Simulation Oculus Goggles

Lifeguard VR Simulation App


Award-winning Virtual Reality (VR) Scanning Simulation is available to support your Lifeguard training experience.

Many critical components of lifeguard training are not replicable in a classroom setting. Participants can practice scanning their zone and identifying the drowning person in realistic 3-minute scenarios.

Elevate Your Training

Expert training to support your aquatic programs with enhanced learning tools and updated teaching methods.

  • Red Cross lifeguards taught by training provider at aquatics facility

    Lifeguards

  • Certified Red Cross lifeguard receiving rescue tube

    Instructors

  • Aquatics facility operator with Red Cross lifeguard

    Facilities

Why Red Cross?

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Nationally Accepted

Best in class curriculum and trusted brand since 1914

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Innovative

State of the Art tools and resources to ensure skill mastery

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Unrivaled Science

Teaching is based on latest science and best practices

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Comprehensive Program

Full Line of Aquatic Training in Various Formats

American Red Cross posters - Prepared to Prevent. Prepared to Protect. Prepared to Respond.

Red Cross Resources to Support Your Program


  • Lifeguard marketing assets for recruiting activities
  • State-of-the-art learning management platform
  • Class Posting Service to promote your courses on redcross.org
  • Learn-to-Swim and Water Safety curriculums designed to meet your aquatic educational program needs.


Learn more

Aquatics Best Practices and Guidelines

Aquatics Guidelines & Best Practices Database


Behind every Red Cross training program stands the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council. We are excited to introduce a comprehensive online aquatics resource. This database includes scientific reviews, aquatic statements and evidence evaluations impacting Lifeguarding participants, Instructors, Instructor Trainers and training providers.

Access Here

Recommended Training Products for Aquatic Facilities

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Manual

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Manual

Water Safety Instructor Candidate Kit

Water Safety Instructor Candidate Kit

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor's Manual

Lifeguarding Instructor's Manual

Jaw Thrust AED, CPR & BLS Manikin Instructor Starter Kit

Jaw Thrust AED, CPR & BLS Manikin Instructor Starter Kit

Contact Our Specialists

Monday - Friday 9am to 6pm ET

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