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SAI does not restrict acceptance of the StarGuard certification, so in theory a StarGuard-trained lifeguard may work anywhere. Additionally, StarGuard has been evaluated and accepted by health departments in states that have a review process and training requirement. However, two factors may influence how a person with StarGuard certification may be able to use it: StarGuard providers who conduct training for their employees may retain the certifications and limit its use to the facility where
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Generally, yes, because that is the most effective way of obtaining a true evaluation of what is occurring at an aquatic facility. However, facilities often choose to have the first StarReview or SwimReview scheduled in advance so that the staff can become familiar with the process.
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Yes.
Waterpark StarGuard: Completion of the additional Waterpark training module authorizes lifeguards for facilities with water slides, wave pools, water play structures, lazy rivers, and other features at waterparks.
Waterfront StarGuard: Completion of the additional Waterfront training module authorizes lifeguards for non-surf open bodies of water that have restricted swim areas (buoyed or roped or dock enclosed).
Wilderness StarGuard: Completion of the Wilderness training course
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No. We evaluate performance and competency based on best practices and objectives. Good lifeguarding is good lifeguarding, regardless of the program under which the lifeguard is certified.
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No. Although the course contains information and teaches skills similar to what a lifeguard might do, the STAR course is for those who do not have a primary duty to respond in an emergency (as lifeguards do as part of their job) but need to know what to do if an emergency occurs.
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The course provides information about how to perform CPR and help in other common situations involving illness or first aid. Some instructors add on the opportunity to take a self-study online CPR course before attending STAR and then conduct a basic skills test. In this situation, CPR certification would be issued.
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Instructors who wish to teach students with special needs using our AngelFish curriculum must first obtain additional training by taking the online course titled Introduction to Adapted Aquatics.
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Five years. Continuing education credit is required in years 4 and 5.
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4 days. Successful completion of Instructor Development Workshop, successful completion of Instructor Certification Workshop, or equivalent apprenticeships. After satisfactory completion of the Wilderness StarGuard program, participants can take this additional two-day training to become an instructor candidate of the program. Apprenticeships follow, before the instructor candidates are able to offer these programs on their own under the auspices of the Starfish Aquatics Institute. Contact our
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AquaTech is considered a CPO/AFO equivalent as evaluated by states that have a requirement and evaluation process. However, regulatory requirements and acceptance policies vary. Contact us if you have questions or problems; we will be glad to contact your regulatory agency.
