Aquatic coordinators and head lifeguards should hold certifications beyond Lifeguarding and WSI.
Emergency Medical Responder
The American Red Cross has released a new fully updated Emergency Medical Responder course, designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills to work as an emergency medical responder (EMR), formerly known as an EMT basic. According to the American Red Cross, the course content exceeds the 2008 NHTSA Emergency Medical Services Standard for EMRs, and it has been approved by the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council.
Holding this basic-level certificate will enable you to take a leadership role during first aid emergencies and training sessions.
Lifeguarding Instructor
The American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor (LGI) course may be one of the most useful certifications for aquatic management, combining the ability to teach lifeguarding, first aid/CPR, and water safety courses in a single certification. California LGIs are eligible to teach the Title 22 First Aid course to their lifeguard staff.
Pool Operator
Several pool operator certification courses are available, including some in online or blended learning formats.
- Aquatic Facility Operator (NRPA)
- Certified Pool/Spa Operator (NSPF)
- Certified Pool Technician (ATI)
- Licensed Aquatic Facility Technician (ASPSA)
- Practical Pool Management Plus (Aquatic Safety Research Group)
Before signing up for any of these courses, make sure the certification is accepted in the state where you work. Some states have additional requirements beyond the pool operator certification.
Water Safety Instructor-Trainer
The path to become a WSI-Trainer is fairly complex; there are several steps, and it can take several months to over a year.
Although the section heading indicates WSI-Trainer, the same process can be used for any Red Cross instructor-trainer certification.
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