By Airik Myers, Northwest Region

Every summer, families across Washington head to pools, lakes, and beaches. Lifeguards are the ones who make sure those spaces stay safe. The American Red Cross has been training lifeguards for more than a century, and that work continues today through strong partnerships with local cities and park districts.

Lifeguards are trained to prevent accidents, respond quickly in emergencies, and save lives when seconds count. Red Cross training prepares them with the skills they need, from water rescues to CPR, and helps communities build a culture of safety.

Creating Pathways for Youth in Tukwila

Located next to Foster High School, one of the most diverse schools in Washington, the Tukwila Pool has built a strong pathway for local students into aquatic employment. Each year, the pool partners with the school to offer Community CPR and First Aid classes. For many students, this is their first introduction to emergency response and often the first step toward lifeguard or swim instructor positions.

Recruitment doesn’t stop there. Tukwila’s own staff have become ambassadors, encouraging friends and classmates to apply. The pool also offers Swim Instructor Aide positions for students who may not yet have the swimming skills needed to become lifeguards. These roles allow students to gain experience, build confidence, and grow into lifeguard training over time. Many remain employed for well over a year, creating a strong, low‑turnover team culture.

Opening Doors in Seattle

Seattle operates a large number of pools and beaches and has recently become a Centennial Partner with the Red Cross. Their lifeguard training program is led by certified Red Cross instructors and supported by scholarships for youth who qualify. Seattle pools also run teen late‑night programs that help at‑risk youth build the basic skills needed to qualify for lifeguard training.

The city ensures quality and consistency through monthly in‑service training, exceeding health department guidelines. Lifeguards are tested twice a year to ensure they can recognize, respond, and reach a drowning person in 30 seconds or less. Seattle also requires the Northwest Lifeguard Test, which challenges lifeguards to perform rescues under less‑than‑ideal circumstances. Instructors often hear back from former students who have used their skills in real emergencies, from basic rescues to CPR and AED responses.

High Quality Training in Lynnwood

The City of Lynnwood has built a strong program that provides consistent training year‑round. People even travel from out of state to take their classes. Their commitment shows how Red Cross training can set a high standard and help meet the demand for skilled lifeguards across King County and beyond.

A Mission That Saves Lives

For more than 100 years, the Red Cross has led water safety education. Lifeguard training is part of that mission. By preparing lifeguards to act with skill and confidence, these programs help prevent tragedies and keep communities safe.

“Our partners are doing incredible work,” said Tatyana Kiselyov, who manages training operations for the Red Cross. “They’re not only keeping swimmers safe, they’re creating opportunities for young people to grow and serve.”

Looking Ahead

With summer in full swing and pools and beaches busy, the need for trained lifeguards is high. Thanks to partnerships across the region, the Red Cross is helping meet that need — one class, one lifeguard, and one safe swim at a time.