Available WASH Courses & Certification Programs

Pool Lifeguard

This is delivered either as a full in-person course or a blended format pool lifeguard certification course. Prepares successful participants to work as lifeguards in a traditional swimming pool setting.

The course will be delivered by one of WASH’s Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) or Authorized Instructors in your geographic area.

Shallow Pool Lifeguard

This is delivered either as a full in-person course or a blended format shallow pool lifeguard certification course.

The course will be delivered by one of WASH’s Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) or Authorized Instructors in your geographic area.

Waterfront Lifeguard

This is delivered either as a full in-person course or a blended format waterfront lifeguard certification course. Prepares successful participants to work as lifeguards in a waterfront (lake) or other non-tidal open water setting.

The course will be delivered by one of WASH’s Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) or Authorized Instructors in your geographic area.

Waterpark Lifeguard

This is delivered either as a full in-person course or a blended format waterpark lifeguard certification course. Prepares successful participants to work as lifeguards in a waterpark setting.

The course will be delivered by one of WASH’s Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) or Authorized Instructors in your geographic area.

Surf Rescue

This is delivered either as a full in-person course or a blended format surf rescue certification course. Prepares successful participants as open tidal water lifeguards.

The course will be delivered by one of WASH’s Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) or Authorized Instructors in your geographic area.

Lifeguard Supervisor Training

This course is designed to prepare successful participants to work as aquatic supervisors, deck managers and in other lifeguard supervisory roles.

Swim Lesson Programs

We offer internationally-recognized, skills-based instruction designed to build water confidence, swimming ability, and essential water-safety skills. Programs are designed for swimmers of varying ages and skill levels, with instruction focused on safe, progressive learning.

Lifeguard Instructor

This course prepares successful participants to deliver the WASH pool, waterpark, and waterfront lifeguard courses (additional training required to teach surf rescue and lifeguard supervisor courses).

Lifeguard Instructor Cross-Over

This course is designed for those instructors holding a current and valid lifeguard instructor authorization from another recognized certifying body. Requires verification of instructor authorization.

Swim Lesson Instructor (SLI)

This course prepares individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively teach swimming and essential water-safety skills. Participants learn instructional techniques, lesson planning, skill progression, safety practices, and methods for working with swimmers of varying ages and abilities.

Swim Lesson Instructor (SLI) Cross-Over

This course is designed for those instructors holding a current and valid instructor authorization from another recognized certifying body to deliver swim lessons. Requires verification of instructor authorization.

Rescue Swimmer

This course develops the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to respond effectively to aquatic emergencies and assist swimmers in distress. Participants learn rescue techniques, victim recognition, water-entry and approach skills, and essential safety practices for performing rescues safely and efficiently.

THIS COURSE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO PROFESSIONAL AGENCIES WHO WILL HOST

Safety at Sea

This course provides essential knowledge and practical awareness for individuals who work, travel, or participate in activities aboard vessels. Participants learn key principles of maritime safety, emergency preparedness, hazard awareness, and safe practices while at sea.

STCW | Basic Safety Training (BST) & Train the Trainer

This course provides maritime professionals with essential knowledge and skills aligned with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) framework. Participants develop an understanding of maritime safety, emergency procedures, personal survival, and responsibilities while working aboard vessels

Flood & Swift Water Rescue

This course provides essential knowledge and skills for recognizing hazards and responding safely during flood and swiftwater emergencies. Participants learn rescue techniques, risk assessment, personal safety practices, and effective response strategies for challenging moving-water environments.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Operations

This course provides participants with the knowledge and skills needed to safely and confidently operate a personal watercraft (PWC). Training covers PWC handling, navigation, operational safety, hazard awareness, and best practices for responsible operation on the water.

THIS COURSE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO THOSE WHO WILL HOST

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Rescue Operations

This course prepares participants to safely and effectively operate personal watercraft (PWC) during aquatic rescue operations. Participants learn PWC handling, rescue techniques, emergency response, hazard recognition, and operational safety in challenging water environments.

THIS COURSE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO THOSE WHO WILL HOST

Rescue Diver

This course prepares participants with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively to underwater emergencies and assist divers in distress. Training focuses on rescue techniques, emergency response, victim recovery, situational awareness, and safe diving practices.

Vessel/Boat Rescue

This course prepares participants with the knowledge and skills needed to support safe and effective waterborne rescue operations. Training covers vessel and boat rescue techniques, hazard recognition, emergency response, equipment use, and safe operating practices.

Defense Maneuvers in the Water

This course is designed for professional lifeguards, military personnel, and other water rescue professionals (and first responders) and prepares successful participants to defend themselves from panicked victims executing a water rescue.

Emergency Vehicle Operations

This course prepares drivers with the knowledge and skills needed to safely operate emergency vehicles in demanding conditions. Participants learn defensive driving, vehicle control, hazard recognition, emergency response procedures, and techniques for reducing operational risk.