Become a Certified Water Safety Instructor

Empower Yourself to Teach the Lifesaving Skills of Water Safety with Red Cross Certification

Description

CLASS DESCRIPTION

Water Safety Instructor® Certification Course

Join our comprehensive Water Safety Instructor (WSI) training course, offered by the American Red Cross. Designed for aspiring instructors aged 16 and older, this program equips you with the knowledge and skills to teach a variety of water safety courses tailored to all age groups. As the gold standard in swim instructor training, the WSI certification not only enhances your professional credentials but empowers you to make a real difference in water safety education.

Through this program, you'll learn critical teaching methodologies and essential safety protocols to ensure that everyone, from toddlers to adults, enjoys their aquatic experiences while minimizing risks. Your training will encompass everything from hydrodynamics and stroke mechanics to essential water rescue practices. Whether you're a swim coach aiming to enhance your skills or someone passionate about teaching, this course will prepare you for an impactful career. 

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    Comprehensive Course Curriculum  

    Dive deep into a multi-faceted training program that covers vital topics such as hydrodynamics, safety procedures, and swimming efficiency. Acquire the skills needed to instruct a range of courses, from Parent and Child Aquatics to Adult Swim.

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    Hands-On Learning Experience  

    Engage in a mix of dedicated online coursework and immersive in-person sessions that combine classroom discussions with practical pool activities. This dual format ensures that you get the most out of your learning experience.

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    Expert Instruction  

    Learn from qualified Red Cross trainers who are passionate about promoting water safety and aquatic skills. Their expertise and personal insights will guide you every step of the way.

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    Networking Opportunities  

    Connect with fellow aspiring instructors and swim enthusiasts who share your passion for water safety. Build professional relationships that could benefit your career in aquatics.

DATES, COST, & LOCATION

An Annapolis Area WSI Course

The Water Safety Instructor (WSI) training course will be offered in the Spring 2025 at the Severna Park Racquetball & Fitness Club: 8514 Veterans Hwy, Millersville, MD. 21108

Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Course Prerequisites:

Minimum age of 16.

Demonstrate swimming skills by swimming the following strokes:

Front Crawl – 25 yards

Back Crawl – 25 yards

Breaststroke – 25 yards

Elementary backstroke – 25 yards

Sidestroke – 25 yards

Butterfly – 15 yards

Maintain position on back for 1 minute in deep water (floating or sculling).

Tread water for 1 minute

Schedule & Pricing

  • Course Dates

    Friday, March 28: 6:30 - 9 PM

    Saturday, March 29: 8 AM - 5 PM

    Sunday, March 30: 8 AM - 3 PM

    Friday, April 4: 6:30 - 9 PM

    Saturday April 5: 8 AM - 5 PM

    Cost: $450

    Register Now

  • Friday, April 11: 6:30 - 9 PM

    Sunday, April 13: 8 AM - 3 PM

    Friday, April 18: 6:30 PM - 9 PM

    Saturday, April 19: 8 AM - 5 PM

    Saturday, April 26: 8 AM - 5 PM

    Register Now

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

  • The WSI certification prepares candidates to teach a variety of American Red Cross swimming and water safety courses, emphasizing best practices in aquatic safety and instruction.

  • This course is ideal for individuals aged 16 and older who aspire to become swim instructors, swim coaches, or lifeguards, and wish to enhance their skills in water safety education.

  • Participants must be at least 16 years old and demonstrate basic swimming skills equivalent to Learn-to-Swim Level 4, including various swim strokes, back float and treading water.

  • The Water Safety Instructor course requires approximately 32 hours of total training, including online coursework and in-person sessions.

  • Certification is valid for 2 years.

  • No. Participants will purchase or access digital learning materials separately from the American Red Cross Instructors Corner.

    • American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor’s Manual

    • American Red Cross Swimming and Water Safety

  • No problem. Reach out and we'd be happy to answer it!

    Contact Us

TAKE THE COURSE

Ready to Make a Splash in Water Safety?  

Become a Certified Water Safety Instructor with the American Red Cross!