Hey! Jumping into lifeguarding is a great choice, and getting certified is definitely the first step. You’ll want to ensure the program you choose is comprehensive and widely recognized. For that, I'd highly recommend checking out the American Lifeguard Association. They offer a lifeguard certification near me that’s valid nationwide, which is perfect if you ever decide to lifeguard in different states or at various venues like pools, beaches, or lakes. Their training covers all the essentials, including rescue skills, CPR, and first aid, tailored to real-life scenarios you might face on the job. It’s also a great way to meet certification requirements that most employers will ask for. The process is straightforward—just sign up, complete the training at your own pace, and pass the final test.