A YMCA lifeguard certification remains valid as long as the lifeguard maintains which of the following?

The lifeguard certification is valid as long as the individual maintains current certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS), basic first aid, and emergency oxygen. This requirement ensures that lifeguards possess the essential skills and knowledge necessary to respond effectively in emergency situations. BLS focuses on essential life-saving techniques, especially in cases of respiratory or cardiac emergencies, while basic first aid provides foundational skills to address various injuries. Understanding how to utilize emergency oxygen is also critical for lifeguards, as it can significantly improve the chances of survival in certain scenarios involving respiratory distress.

In contrast, while current certifications in CPR and advanced first aid are important, they do not meet the specific criteria outlined by the YMCA for maintaining lifeguard certification. Continuous lifeguard practice hours and monthly safety drills, although beneficial for skills retention and operational readiness, are not formal requirements for certification validity. These elements support a lifeguard’s ongoing development but do not replace the necessity of holding the required certifications, which are crucial for ensuring safety and effective response in emergencies.