Lifeguarding
8 courses · San Diego Miramar College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
LFGD 101 Introduction to Open Water Lifeguarding
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32 - 36 hours lecture/48-54 hours lab
- Corequisite
- Completion of or concurrent enrollment in: EMGM 105A with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent or LFGD 101A with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This introductory-level course provides a foundation in the theoretical background, procedures, and manipulative skills necessary for service as an ocean and inland beach lifeguard. Topics include lifeguarding history, training, education, standardized procedures, environmental protection, ethics, physical and biological characteristics of the beach environment, rescue techniques, facilities and equipment, recordkeeping, public relations, and legal issues. The content of the course follows United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) standards. It is intended for students currently seeking employment as open water lifeguards.
LFGD 101A Emergency Medical Care of the Sick and Injured
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 48-54 hours lab
This course trains students in the emergency medical skills needed by public safety personnel. Topics include emergency care procedures, such as examining the victim; observing surroundings; determining case histories; maintaining an airway; performing resuscitation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); controlling bleeding; and treating cerebrovascular injuries, shock, and seizures. Students also learn about childbirth; manual lifts and carries; and improvising and providing transportation. This course meets present public safety emergency care requirements.
LFGD 301 Advanced Open Water Lifeguard Training
- Units
- 3.5
- Hours
- 168 - 190 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- LFGD 101 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This advanced-level course prepares seasonal lifeguards for year-round positions. Topics include municipal rules and regulations, equipment operation, lifesaving procedures, law enforcement, emergency management, report writing, and leadership. The content of the course follows the standards of the United States Lifesaving Association.
LFGD 320 In-service Lifeguard Training Modules
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 192 - 240 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- LFGD 101 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This in-service lifeguard training course updates, improves, and assesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities of current lifeguard personnel. During the course students complete Emergency Medical Technician recertification. Other topics include water rescue and drowning prevention; beach management and law enforcement; leadership; vessel rescue; maritime enforcement; marine firefighting; swiftwater rescue; Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA) rescue; technical rope rescue; Hazardous materials (hazmat) handling; weapons of mass destruction; and multiple victim/mass casualty incident command.
LFGD 330 All-Terrain Vehicle Operations
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 4 - 6 hours lecture/12 - 18 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- LFGD 101 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course provides training in the operation and responsibilities of All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) used in beach lifeguard operations. Topics include terminology, legal considerations, basic maintenance, riding operations, and pre- and post-operation inspections.
LFGD 335 Rescue Watercraft Operations
- Units
- 0.5
- Hours
- 32 - 40 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- LFGD 101 with a Grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
This course trains open water lifeguards in the operation and crew responsibilities of the rescue watercraft (RWC). Topics include boating law, safety, technology, maintenance, and operation.
LFGD 392L Special Topics in Open Water Lifeguarding
- Units
- 0.5-4.5
- Hours
- 24-243 hours lab
This course provides training in various kinds of lifeguarding practices. Fundamental skills and techniques used by lifeguards in the regular execution of their duties are taught from a variety of different focus areas that may vary from term to term. Focus areas may include various kinds of lifeguarding techniques, vehicle or equipment operation, or emergency management, among others. Focus areas are listed in the class schedule and student transcripts.
LFGD 392S Special Topics in Open Water Lifeguarding
- Units
- 0.2
- Hours
- 1 hours lecture/7 - 20.5 hours lab
This course provides training in various kinds of lifeguarding practices. Fundamental skills and techniques used by lifeguards in the regular execution of their duties are taught from a variety of different focus areas that may vary from term to term. Focus areas may include various kinds of lifeguarding techniques, vehicle or equipment operation, or emergency management, among others. Focus areas are listed in the class schedule and student transcripts.