The Lifeguarding course provides participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies and to provide professional-level care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries, and sudden illnesses until emergency medical services (EMS) personnel take over. Registration is required by the Monday before class in order to provide ample time to complete the required online material prior to the in-person portion of the class. Must be 15 years or older to take the class. Registration does not guarantee certification.

The class can be taken at no cost to the participant with successful reference and background check, and an agreement to work at the Hamden/North Haven YMCA & New Haven YMCA Youth Center for six months.