Alabama Red Cross highlights need for lifeguards, offers certification

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – While the Alabama Red Cross says the state is not seeing an overall shortage of lifeguards this summer, they group says certain communities, especially near the gulf, are short staffed.

The Red Cross is urging anyone interested in lifeguarding to give it a shot. They offer an online certification program, as well as a three-day course that involves online and in-person classes.

Annette Rowland with the Red Cross is a mother who used to be a lifeguard. She spoke first-hand on why certified, reliable lifeguards are so crucial.

“I turned around for two seconds to say something to a friend of mine, and my daughter had taken off her float vest because she had run inside to go get a snack,” Rowland said. “I turned around and said, ‘Where is she?’ She was under the water. There was no sound to be made.”

The mother said her daughter could not breathe. That is when she sprung into action.

“We jumped in and we pulled her out, but it’s scary,” she said. “That’s why lifeguarding is important, because people don’t always recognize the signs of someone drowning.”

People interested in becoming a lifeguard can click here to find a class nearby.

Participants must be at least 15 years old, be able to tread water, and pass other tests.

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