Lifeguarding* (15+ years old)
Lifeguards must be age 15 to apply for employment at Downata Hot Springs. Must be age 15 by the end of the lifeguard course in May.
American Red Cross Lifeguarding is ideal for people who want to work at traditional pools. The course teaches professionalism, patron and facility surveillance, victim recognition, equipment-based rescues, and caring for head, neck and back injuries. 25 hours for course + 10 hours pre-requisite swimming sessions.
2025 Lifeguard Course Pre-requisite Swim
Lifeguarding Swim-Tread-Swim Sequence (done in sequence - no stopping between events)
■ Swim 150 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both.
- Swimming on the back or side is not permitted. Swim goggles are allowed.
■ Maintain position at the surface of the water for 2 minutes by treading water using only the legs.
■ Swim 50 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke or a combination of both.
Timed Event
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 to 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object.
■ Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point, holding the object at the surface with both hands and keeping the face at or near the surface.
■ Exit the water without using a ladder or steps
*Guard Start Swim Lessons will begin
Full Lifeguard Course:
Cost: $99 (refundable if employment requirements are met) *TAKING THE LIFEGUARD COURSE DOES NOT GUARANTEE EMPLOYMENT AT DOWNATA HOT SPRINGS. Cost of Class– Includes certification, lap swimming and pocket mask. Attendance is required to pass the lifeguard course. $25 non-refundable deposit due the first day of lap swimming and the balance due the first day of course. No refunds after the classes have started. Taking the lifeguard course does not guarantee employment at Downata Hot Springs. Course schedule will be available end of February; course goes from March till May. Lap swimming will be available Friday mornings from 8 am to 10 am
Lifeguard Recertification:
*Must attend lifeguard course skills dates and CPR dates to certify. Includes lap swimming in March if needed. Returning guards have the recertification fee waived.
Red Cross CPR/AED Courses:
CPR for the Professional Rescuer/AED/Oxygen 2-year Re-certification:
$60 + cost of pocket mask. Bring your own pocket mask or purchase one at class for about $15.
WSI Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Course: $225 + cost of books - Free if commitment to teach all three weeks of lessons. Offered only to Downata Hot Springs employees or instructors teaching or Downata Hot Springs. Age requirement: 16 or older.
To register call 208-897-5736 or email us at info@downatahotsprings.com OR use the form below: