Older Scouts may earn Scoutings toughest lifesaving certification.

So youve earned the Swimming, Lifesaving and Rowing merit badges; you love the water and want more.  Heres how you can earn the BSA Lifeguard certificate.

1. You must be at least 14 or have completed the 8^th grade.
2. You must be able to swim 400 yards using a number of strokes in good form.
3. You must be able to demonstrate surface dives, floating, and your rowing skills.
4. In addition to Swimming, Lifesaving, and Rowing, you should have the First Aid merit badge.
5. To complete BSA Lifeguard at camp you must bring proof of current CPR certification from the Heart Association, American Red Cross or National Safety Council.

BSA Lifeguard certification is good for three years.  It can help you secure a job as a lifeguard, and meets some of the requirements for the following Venturing awards: the Outdoor Bronze, the Ranger Award, the Venturing Gold Award, and the Venturing Silver Award.

To earn this certificate at camp, plan to spend at least three hours a day spent on the waterfront.  In the morning you will help teach.  In the afternoon you will guard free swims. BSA Lifeguard instruction will take place also at a time determined by the Aquatics Director.

Ask your Scoutmaster for the detailed requirements on the application in his Summer Camp Leaders Guide.  Theres lots of work to do ahead of time, so come prepared.  Sounds like a lot of work?  It is!  But youll have a lot of fun earning it, and it can help your Troop have swimming and boating activities.