Donate Now

Sign-up here to receive our free monthly e-newsletter.

About Red Cross Disaster Courses

Our Red Cross disaster courses are designed to prepare volunteers for working in disasters of all sizes. If you have questions about the courses below, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

You can also view our course schedule on a month-to-month basis by clicking on the .pdf files below:

January through May 2010

Bulk Distribution Operations

The purpose of this course is to prepare participants for the roles, responsibilities and tasks involved in setting up, operating and supporting Bulk Distribution operation in the chapter and on a disaster relief operation.

Available Courses:
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Feb. 13 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 2, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Client Assistance System

Introduces caseworkers to the role of data entry into computer system of client casework.  CAS is an acronym for Client Assistance System. CAS software and reporting provide our organization a single system of record to support the delivery of assistance to clients.  CAS expedites financial assistance and services to our clients, by enabling workers to deliver services from any computer with Internet access meeting the minimum system requirements below.  It manages information about clients, their needs and the assistance we provide them following a disaster.  It also matches disaster assessment information with client information.

Available Classes
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. March 25 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 2, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203. 

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Requirements:

*Requires Client Casework: Providing Emergency Assistance completion before taking this computer “system” class as you will be learning how to enter the client casework data into the system.

Client Casework: Providing Emergency Assistance

This course prepares Red Cross employees and volunteers to perform the tasks of an Individual Client Services casework service associate.  Participants will be trained on how to conduct effective client interviews and provide appropriate assistance to help meet a client’s immediate disaster-caused or disaster-aggravated needs.

Available Classes
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mar. 20 at the Lake Norman Office, 200 Overhill Drive, Suite A, Mooresville, NC 28117
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 11 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Collaborating to Ensure Effective Service Delivery

Collaborating to Ensure Effective Service Delivery course is designed to prepare Red Cross employees and volunteers to establish collaborative relationships that contribute to coordinated disaster response and help to ensure inclusive and effective service delivery.  This course will also prepare participants to begin conducting liaison activities in a chapter and establish a foundation upon which they can build toward a career as a liaison in the Disaster Services Human Resources (DSHR) system.

Available Classes
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 26 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Community Disaster Education

When a fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane, or other emergency occurs in your community, you can count on your local Red Cross to be there to help you and your family. A key part of being Red Cross Ready is being prepared. The Greater Carolinas Chapter can provide several community disaster education seminars.

To view a list of these courses, click here.

DAT Workshop

DAT Workshop is an extension of Intro to Disaster by allowing the volunteer to attain training, knowledge, and implementation of skills needed to respond to a local disaster within an hour of notification, or when the site is deemed safe by the emergency on-scene command.  This class is a requirement for all volunteers who wish to participate on a local team that is called out to assist clients after a fire, flood, or storm disaster event.

Available Classes
6-9 p.m. Jan. 14 at the Lake Norman Office, 200 Overhill Drive, Suite A, Mooresville, NC 28117
6-9 p.m. Feb. 17 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6-9 p.m. Apr 7 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Defensive Driving

Provides information on how to protect yourself and others while defensively driving on the road.  This class is necessary for all volunteers who will participate on a DAT team or work within the Material Support Services branch which require driving the company vehicles.

Available Classes
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. March 17 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. May 4 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Disaster Assessment Basics

The purpose of this course is to provide a general overview of the tasks performed by Red Cross Disaster Assessment workers in support of a disaster relief operation and a local incident such as a single or multi-family fire.

The Disaster Assessment Basics course is not a replacement for the Fundamentals of Disaster Assessment (DSIMS200B) course; it is a complementary course developed for a different audience.  This new course is designed for local community volunteers, primarily Disaster Action Team (DAT) members.

Available Classes
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Feb. 11 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. April 8 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

DISASTER FRONTLINE SUPERVISOR (CLASS STUDY & SIMULATION)

The purpose of this course is to prepare supervisors to lead a team of disaster workers to deliver high quality client service and to create a climate that promotes worker satisfaction.

Available Classes
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 15 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER/INCIDENT COMMAND LIAISON

The purpose of this basic Disaster Services course is to prepare Red Cross employees and volunteers who will be assigned to government and emergency settings to work collaboratively with Red Cross partners, helping to ensure a coordinated response that results in effective service delivery.

Available Classes
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 1 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Requirements:

•Collaborating to Ensure Effective Service Delivery
•Sufficient operations knowledge and experience to provide a functional understanding of the concepts, principles and procedures associated with disaster assessment, sheltering, feeding, the provision of individual assistance and the basics of operations management needed to participate adequately in the discussions and activities contained in this course.

ERV Class and Road Study

This course provides learners with the opportunity to learn about and use an Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) and all related equipment. The course consists of two parts that participants must complete: an instructor-led study and ERV orientation and road test.

ERV: Class Study
6-9 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6-9 p.m. May 7 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

ERV: Road Study
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 30 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 8 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Requirements:

*Requires the volunteer to have completed Mass Care Overview (ARC 3068-1), have valid drivers license and satisfactory DMV report, and Defensive Driving Certificate. Volunteer must also come both days to receive credit for completing this course. 

FINANCIAL AND STATISTICAL INFORMATION MANAGEMENT

The purpose of this basic-level disaster services course is to prepare Red Cross employees and volunteers to perform the tasks of a Financial & Statistical Information Management (FSI) service associate on a disaster relief operation.

Available Classes
Next Class - TBD

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

FOUNDATIONS OF DISASTER MENTAL HEALTH

The purpose of this basic level Disaster Services training is to prepare licensed mental health professionals to provide for and respond to the psychological needs of people across the continuum of disaster preparedness, response and recovery.

Available Classes
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 27 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Requirements:

Mental health professional with a current state license, to include:  Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Psychiatrist, Psychologist, A registered nurse (RN) with psychiatric nursing experience and training beyond the normal rotation required for a RN or Social Worker
It is strongly recommended (but not required) that all participants complete: • Fulfilling Our Mission: Translating Your Compassion into Community Action; Client Casework: Providing Emergency Assistance and Working With Total Diversity

FULILLING OUR MISSION – TRANSLATING YOUR COMPASSION INTO COMMUNITY ACTION

The purpose of this course is to enable participants to translate their care and compassion into community action, through a uniform message.  The participants will be able to assess how to use their skills and abilities to strengthen the capacity of both the community and the Red Cross to better serve people affected by disaster.  They will understand the mission of the Red Cross, the principles and values that support the mission and the expected behaviors of Red Cross volunteers and employees in the conduct of that mission and then will be given the next steps.

Available Classes
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Feb. 9 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 21 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Fundamentals of Disaster Assessment Parts I and II

Fundamentals of Disaster Assessment is designed to introduce the critical role of Disaster Assessment, explore related preparedness tasks, learn how to collect and communicate disaster assessment information, and become familiar with how disaster assessment information supports management and service delivery decisions.  NOTE:  This is designed for those individuals who are interested in being called on a state or National Disaster operations.  If you are only interested in local level – the basics class is all you need.

Fundamentals of Disaster Assessment (DSIMS200B) is a blended learning course consisting of two components, online (DSIMS200C) and instructor-led (DSIMS200A). Successful completion of both course components is required to receive a certificate of course completion.
The online training component of the course (Part 1) resides on the Red Cross Learning Management System (LMS). It provides an overview of the Disaster Assessment activity and its related tasks.  Because of many people who are unable to access the on-line portion from their home – we will offer an instructor led course for PART I as follows:

Available Classes
Next Class - TBD

(Part 2) the “official” instructor-led component of the course will reinforce and build upon content presented in the online component while providing participants with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and develop skills in Disaster Assessment through applied learning activities.  NOTE:  You must complete the on-line component BEFORE taking the Part II instructor led class.

Available Classes
9 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 23 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Health Services Response

Health Services Response is an instructor-led workshop designed to orient licensed or certified health professionals to the roles and responsibilities of a Health Services Service Associate when working on behalf of the American Red Cross to meet the disaster-related health needs of clients.  These activities require workshop participants to apply their professional knowledge, experience and critical thinking abilities to the work-related challenges experienced by Red Cross workers who provide immediate assistance to clients in the aftermath of a disaster.

Available Classes
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 2, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 20 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 2, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Requirements:

Prerequisites: Health Services Response is intended for Red Cross employees and volunteers with a current professional license or certificate to practice as a CAN, EMT, LPN/LVN, PA, RN or MD and who are interested in working in their relief operation and functions as health professionals within the Health Services Protocols. 

International Humanitarian Law

This course is intended to raise awareness among American Red Cross representatives and general audiences about the Geneva Conventions, the basic rule of international humanitarian law, and the role of the Red Cross during armed conflict.  Through a hands-on approach utilizing group activities, class discussion and multiple audiovisual aids, this newly-updated introductory course invites participants to reflect on their images and perceptions of armed conflict and explore the powerful and fundamental concept of human dignity even in the midst of the excess of war.

Available Classes
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Feb. 22 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 2, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Logistics Overview and Simulations

The purpose of this course is to provide basic information about the processes of Material Support Services activities in support of an American Red Cross disaster relief operation. Participants will learn about the skills, abilities and knowledge needed by Material Support Services workers and how they can become involved in their local chapter.  Material Support Services is the activity that works behind the scenes to organize, accept, store, or transport goods and materials received by the ARC.

Logistics Overview - Available Classes
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. March 1 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. May 24 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

Logistics Simulations - Available Classes
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 190 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. March 2 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. May 25 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Requirements:

*Requires participants to have completed Fulfilling Our Mission: Translating Your Mission: Translating Your Compassion into Community Action (DSGEN200A) - Completing the New Volunteer Orientation with satisfies this requirement.

Mass Care Overview

This course provides an overview of the activities performed by the Mass Care group on support of a disaster relief operation.  Participants will be employees and volunteers of the Red Cross and other agencies and community leaders who wish to serve or work with Mass Care group activities on a disaster relief operation.  This overview demonstrates assisting a larger group of people, i.e. multi-unit fire, large-scale natural disasters, etc.

Available Classes
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Feb. 8 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 5 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

National Deployment 101

Provides information for volunteers who are considering being deployed to a National Disaster to learn from a senior volunteer about deployment.  This class is an information session where volunteers can hear first hand accounts from local people who have been deployed and gather valuable information on what to expect.

Available Classes
6-8 p.m. Jan. 27 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6-8 p.m. March 18 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6-8 p.m. May 20 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Psychological First Aid

The course provides a framework for understanding the factors that affect stress responses in disaster relief workers and the clients they serve.  In addition, it provides practical suggestions about what you can say and do as your practice the principles of Psychological First Aid.

Available Courses
6-9 p.m. Mar. 9 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6-9 p.m. May 19 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Shelter Operations/Simulations

Shelter Operations is a class designed for learners to acquire knowledge of Red Cross policies and procedures for setting up, running, and closing a shelter during a disaster.  Shelter Simulations allows the participants to apply what they have learned in various table top sessions from the previous training in Shelter Operations.

Shelter Operations
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Feb. 15 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 12 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

Shelter Simulations
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 13 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

Shelter Operations and Simulations
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 6 at the Lake Norman Office, 200 Overhill Drive, Suite A, Mooresville, NC 28117

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION/TERRORISM: AN OVERIEW

The purpose of this course is to provide basic information about the issues and safety concerns related to responding to a disaster incident in an environment involving Weapons of Mass Destruction/Terrorism (WMD/T).  Participants will learn about the knowledge, skills and abilities needed by disaster workers performing duties in this environment.

Available Classes
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. March 22 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 1, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

Requirements:

*Requires participants to have completed Fulfilling Our Mission: Translating Your Mission: Translating Your Compassion into Community Action (DSGEN200A)

Working with Total Diversity

This course is a skill-based training program that provides tools for achieving total diversity in our people, programs and services.  It focuses on the critical skills you need to be effective in working with and serving in diverse communities.

Available Courses:
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. April. 23 at the Sadie Fowler Disaster Center, Classroom 2, 2401 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

To register, call 704.378.4643 or e-mail .

About our Health and Safety courses

View our Course Schedule here.

The Greater Carolinas Chapter of the American Red Cross not only responds to emergencies, but we teach people and businesses how to prevent them through a variety of safety classes, ranging from swimming lessons and Babysitter’s Training to CPR and First Aid.

Instructions for registering online

Refund Policy: Due to the restriction of class size and cost associated with insufficient course enrollment NO REFUNDS will be issued.

Inclement Weather Policy: When weather is too severe for students and instructors to safely drive to class, we will notify you via a phone call and e-mail at the number and address you provide us.  Also, please listen and watch for information on the local media.  Health & Safety Services follows the Charlotte-Mecklenburg and Iredell-Statesville Schools weather policy.  Therefore, when those schools are closed due to inclement weather, we will not conduct our classes as scheduled.  When a class is canceled by Red Cross we will be happy to reschedule you to another class or you may receive a refund for your class. You may also call 704.347.8221 for further instructions regarding your class.

Adult CPR/AED

This course prepares participants to perform rescue breathing, choking procedures, recognize cardiac emergencies and perform CPR. In addition, this course prepares participants to safely use an AED during cardiac arrest in adults.

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a computer operated device, that automatically analyzes a heart’s rhythm and delivers a shock if the rhythm is irregular. It allows the user to provide immediate assistance in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.

Certification: Adult CPR/AED (valid 1 year)

Duration: 4.5 hours

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Adult CPR/AED & First Aid - Charlotte

This course prepares participants to perform rescue breathing, choking procedures, recognize cardiac emergencies and perform CPR. In addition, this course prepares participants to safely use an AED during cardiac arrest in adults. Participants also learn basic First Aid skills for various emergencies such as severe bleeding, shock, fractures, temperature extremes.

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a computer operated device, that automatically analyzes a heart’s rhythm and delivers a shock if the rhythm is irregular. It allows the user to provide immediate assistance in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.

Certifications: Adult CPR/AED (valid 1 year) & First Aid (valid 3 years)

Duration: 6.5 hours

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Requirements:

none

Adult/Child CPR/AED with Infant CPR & First Aid

This course teaches how to respond in respiratory and cardiac emergencies including CPR, rescue breathing and airway obstruction in adults, infants and children. Also, learn basic first aid skills for various emergencies: severe bleeding, shock, fractures, temperature extremes, etc. Meets state licensing requirements for day cares.

An AED is a computer operated device, about the size of a laptop computer, which allows the user to provide immediate assistance in the event of sudden cardiac arrest. It automatically analyzes a heart’s rhythm and if the heart has an abnormal rhythm, it will deliver a shock. This AED course prepares first responders in the safe use of AED equipment.

Certification: Adult/Child CPR/AED with Infant CPR (Valid 1 year)
Certification: First Aid Basics (Valid 3 years)

Duration: 9 hours

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Adult/Child/Infant CPR Challenge

Challenges offer test-only recertifications. There is no lecture or review of the material. Students take a written test and a skill test only. **NO REVIEW OFFERED FOR CHALLENGES**

Students may challenge part or all of the classes listed.

Duration: varies
Certification: varies - certifications are based on what the stuedent challenges. Possible certifications are: Adult CPR (Valid 1 year), Child CPR (Valid 1 year), Infant CPR (Valid 1 year)

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Babysitter’s Instructor

To train insturctor candidates to teach the American Red Cross Babysitter’s Training course. This course also prepares instructor candidates to use course materials, conduct training sessions and evaluate the progress of participants in a basic-level course.

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Requirements:
  • Be at least 17 years old on or before the end of course.
  • Hold a current Fundamentals of Instructor Training (FIT) certificate or be a currently authorized Red Cross Instructor in a Health & Safety Services program.
  • Pass the precourse exam with a minimum grade of 80 percent and successfully perform all skills in the precourse session.

Babysitter’s Training

Learn the skills associated with leadership, safety and professionalism. Become a safe, responsible, successful babysitter in our new updated, expanded and redesigned babysitter training class.  Gain the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to give outstanding care for infants and school-age children.  Our new products make the course more engaging than ever.  Participants receive materials that are useful during the course and on the job.  These include a handbook packed with information and full-color sheets, a compact emergency reference guide and interactive CD-ROM featuring an activity booklet with games, songs and recipes, and other activities.  Enjoy having your own electronic babysitting client organizer and learn how to:

  • care for children and infants
  • be a good leader and role model
  • make good decisions and solve problems
  • keep the children and yourself safe
  • handle emergencies such as injuries, illnesses and household accidents
  • write resumes and interview for jobs
  • and much more!!

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Requirements:

Course length: 6.5 hours (includes lunch break)
Prerequisite:  participants must be 11 years old
Certification:  Babysitter’s Training (valid for life)

  • Student must be accompanied by an adult into the classroom.
  • Parent must leave an emergency contact phone number with Instructor.
  • Student will need to bring lunch, pen or pencil.
  • Parents need to reconfirm pick up time with Instructor.

Basic Water Rescue

The purpose of the Class is provide individuals with the information and skills necessary to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies. This course will also prepare individuals for aquatic emergencies by teaching them how to protect themselves when assisting others. This course is not a substitute for Lifeguarding Certification.

Contact the following for more information:

  • Aquatic Innovations, 980.329.7170
  • Carolina Pool Management, 704.788.7946
  • Charlotte Aquatics, 704.341.9673
  • Charlotte Safety Training, 704.281.4986
  • Charlotte Swim Club Management, 704.766.2726
  • Mecklenburg Aquatic Club, 704.846.5335
  • Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center, 704.336.3483
  • Open Water Adventures, 704.547.5991
  • Rays Splash Planet, 704.432.1141
  • UNC-Charlotte, 704.547.2560
  • U.S. Aquatics Carolina, 704.504.3317

CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer

American Red Cross professional rescuer courses are designed for people with job-related responsibility to respond to emergencies. This includes nurses, law enforcement, EMS/EMT personnel, fire fighters, business and industry emergency response teams, lifeguards, flight attendants, and others who must take action in emergency situations.  This class combines a participant’s manual, lectures and video with hands-on skills training to cover the following areas:

Responding to breathing and cardiac emergencies in adults, children and infants

Using an AED on an adult and child victims of cardiac arrest

Using personal protective equipment to stop bloodborne pathogens and other diseases from spreading

Additional skills include two-rescuer CPR, using a resuscitation mask and bag-valve mask

Certification: CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer (valid 1 year)

Duration: 8 hours

Pocket mask included in class fee.

To register for this class, click here.

If you need Pro-Rescuer to complete your Life Guarding Certificate, contact:

  • Carolina Pool Management, 704.788.7946
  • Charlotte Aquatics, 704.341.9673
  • Charlotte Safety Training, 704.281.4986
  • Charlotte Swim Club Management, 704.766.2726
  • Jewish Community Center, 704.944.6745
  • Mecklenburg Aquatic Club, 704.846.5335
  • Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center, 704.336.3483
  • Open Water Adventures, 704.547.5991
  • Rays Splash Planet, 704.432.1141
  • UNC-Charlotte, 704.547.2560
  • U.S. Aquatics Carolina, 704.504.3317
  • Dowd YMCA, 704.716.6116
  • Harris YMCA, 704.716.6852
  • Johnston YMCA, 704.716.6362
  • McCrory YMCA, 704.716.6500
  • Morris Family YMCA @ Ballantyne, 704.716.4650
  • Simmons YMCA, 704.716.6600
  • Siskey YMCA, 704.716.4258
  • University City TMCA, 704.716.6725
  • Uptown YMCA, 704.716.6454
  • YWCA of the Central Carolinas, 704.525.5770

CPR/First Aid Challenge

Indivduals may challenge Red Cross CPR (including CPR for the Professional Rescuer), First Aid basic level courses.

Students must be prepared for a written test in which a score of 80% must be achieved; students must successfully demonstrate critical skills.

No instruction or review is provided by the instructor.

Students are not provied course materials. Materials are available for purchase at an additional cost.

*NO REVIEW OFFERED FOR CHALLENGE COURSES*

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Fundamentals of Instructor Training (FIT)

Teaches basic learning and instructional concepts and provides an overview of the American Red Cross. All instructor candidates must complete this course prior to any other instructor course.

Certification: FIT (valid 1 year)
Duration: 5 hours

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Lay Responder First Aid & CPR/AED Instructor

Teached basic learning and instructional concepts and provides an overview of the American Red Cross. All instructor candidates must complete this course prior to any other instructor course.

Certification: FIT (Valid 1 year)

Books are included in training

2nd day- Pre-Course Challenge & First Aid Basics challenge
3rd day- Instructor Course- First Aid & Adult/Child CPR/AED & Infant CPR
4th day- same as day 3.

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Requirements:
  • Must be Adult/Child CPR/AED & Infant CPR & First Aid certified.
  • Full participation in course activities
  • Pass written test with a minimum of 80 percent or higher.
  • Successfully complete all skills tests.
  • Must attend all 4 days for Instructor certification

Lay Responder First Aid & CPR/AED Instructor and Fundamentals of Instructor Training

Teaches basic learning and instructional concepts and provides an overview of the American Red Cross. All instructor candidates must complete this course prior to any other instructor course.

Certification: FIT (valid 1 year)

Books included in training

2nd Day: Pre-Course Challenge & First Aid Basics Challenge
3rd Day: Instructor Course - First Aid & Adult/Child/Infant CPR/AED
4th Day: Instructor Course - First Aid & Adult/Child/Infant CPR/AED

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Requirements:
  • Must be Adult/Child/Infant CPR/AED & First Aid Certified.
  • Full participation in course activities.
  • Pass written tests with a minimum of 80 percent or higher.
  • Successfully complete all skills tests.
  • Must attend all 4 days for Instructor Certification.

Lay Responder First Aid and CPR/AED Instructor

other community groups. Also great for the company that would like to do their own in-house training. This course prepares and certifies the participant in all the basic FA/CPR/AED skills and teaches them how to facilitate a full course. After completing the instructor course, the student will be able to set up an agreement between the organization and the American Red Cross in order to work together towards the goal of saving lives. Students must attend all sessions of class.

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Requirements:
  • Must know AED, Adult, Infant and Child CPS skills and First Aid

Lifeguard Instructor

Instructor candidates learn to teach Lifeguard Training (including First Aid), CPR for the Professional Rescuer, Lifeguard Management, AED Essentials, Oxygen Administration, Preventing Disease Transmission, Community Water Safety and Basic Water Rescue.

Upon successful completion, students receive Lifeguard Instructor certificate valid for 2 years if you teach within that time period.

Course Length: 27 hours
Fee: Set by individual Aquatic Facilities

Course is offered on various dates at several locations throughout the Greater Carolinas Area. Contact the following for specifics:

  • Aquatic Innovations, 980.329.7170
  • Carolina Aquatic Professionals, 704.516.2525
  • UNC-Charlotte, 704.547.2560
  • Charlotte Safety Training, 704.281.4986
  • Mike Dellinger, 704.488.5396
  • Lake Norman YMCA, 704.716.4400
  • Huntersville Family Fitness and Aquatics, 704.766.2222

Requirements:
  • 17 years of age prior to last date of class.
  • Possess Fundamentals of Instructor Training (FIT) Certificate, or be a current American Red Cross instructor in another specialty area.
  • Successfully pass pre-course exam which includes written test and swim test.
  • Successfully complete pre-course on first day of course which includes:
  • Swim 300 yards (front crawl & breaststroke)
  • 20 yard swim & brick retrieval from 7-10 depth of water (timed skill)

Lifeguard Management

The purpose of the Lifeguard Management course is to provide participants with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage lifeguards and to create an environment that keeps patrons, lifeguards, and the aquatic facility safe. 
Fee includes course text with CD-Rom.

Upon successful completion, students receive Lifeguard Management certification valid so long as the Lifeguard Training Instructor certificate is maintained.

Course Length: 7 hours
*NOTE: course fee set by individual facilities.

Contact the following for more information:

  • Aquatic Innovations, 980.329.7170
  • Carolina Pool Management, 704.788.7946
  • Charlotte Aquatics, 704.341.9673
  • Charlotte Safety Training, 704.281.4986
  • Charlotte Swim Club Management, 704.766.2726
  • Mecklenburg Aquatic Club, 704.846.5335
  • Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center, 704.336.3483
  • Open Water Adventures, 704.547.5991
  • Rays Splash Planet, 704.432.1141
  • UNC-Charlotte, 704.547.2560
  • U.S. Aquatics Carolina, 704.504.3317

Requirements:

Recommended for individuals with lifeguard or management experience.

Lifeguard Review Course

This review session gives currently certified lifeguards an opportunity to review, practice and test out of Lifeguard Training, First Aid, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, and Oxygen Administration.
Students must bring CPR pocket masks or purchase a new one from the Red Cross for $15, prior to course start date. Extra CPR masks will not be available at the class.

Participants receive Lifeguard Training and First Aid certifications valid for 3 years, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer certification valid for 1 year.

*NOTE: course fee set by individual facilities.

Course Length: at least 12 hours

Contact the following for more information:

  • Aquatic Innovations, 980.329.7170
  • Carolina Pool Management, 704.788.7946
  • Charlotte Aquatics, 704.341.9673
  • Charlotte Safety Training, 704.281.4986
  • Charlotte Swim Club Management, 704.766.2726
  • Mecklenburg Aquatic Club, 704.846.5335
  • Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center, 704.336.3483
  • Open Water Adventures, 704.547.5991
  • Rays Splash Planet, 704.432.1141
  • UNC-Charlotte, 704.547.2560
  • U.S. Aquatics Carolina, 704.504.3317

Requirements:

Prerequisites:
* 15 years of age.
* Students must provide a copy of current Lifeguard/CPR/PR certifications.
* Successfully complete pre-course exam on the first day of the course, including:
* Swim 300 yards (front crawl & breaststroke)
* 20 yard swim & brick retrieval from 7-10ft depth of water (timed skill)

Lifeguard Training

Teaches lifeguard candidates the skills and knowledge needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies.

Participants receive Lifeguard Training and First Aid certifications valid for 3 years, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer certification valid for 1 year, program text and pocket mask.

*NOTE: course fee set by individual facilities.

Contact the following for specifics:

  • Aquatic Innovations, 980.329.7170
  • Carolina Pool Management, 704.788.7946
  • Charlotte Aquatics, 704.341.9673
  • Charlotte Safety Training, 704.281.4986
  • Charlotte Swim Club Management, 704.766.2726
  • Mecklenburg Aquatic Club, 704.846.5335
  • Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center, 704.336.3483
  • Open Water Adventures, 704.547.5991
  • Rays Splash Planet, 704.432.1141
  • UNC-Charlotte, 704.547.2560
  • USA Pools, www.usapools.com
  • U.S. Aquatics Carolina, 704.504.3317
  • Mike Dellinger, 704.488.5396
  • Nomad Aquatics and Fitness, 704.949.1542
  • Huntersville Family Fitness, 704.771.8466

Requirements:

Prerequisite:
• 15 years of age prior to last date of class.
• Successfully complete pre-course exam on the first day of the course, including:
-Swim 300 yards (front crawl & breaststroke)
-20 yard swim & brick retrieval from 7-10ft. depth of water (timed skill)

Online Skills Session

Now you can can learn lifesavings techniques at your own pace, from the convenience of your computer. The Greater Carolinas Red Cross is proud to present our community with powerful online training courses.

1. Click here to find available online courses.
2. Select course you would like to take. To obtain certification you will need to print out a course completion certificate and sign up for a manikin skill session, either online or over the phone. Once skill session is completed the participant will receive a American Red Cross certification.

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Requirements:

Take on-line course and uptain a course verification number that you must bring to session to complete manikin skills.

Oxygen Administration for the Professional Rescuer

Participants learn the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care to a victim of breathing emergency using breathing devices, including resuscitation masks, bag-valve-mask resuscitators and emergency oxygen.

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Requirements:

This course must be taken in conjunction with CPR for the Professional Rescuer on the same day.

Pet First Aid

In this course various topics will be covered from recognizing an emergency and solving the problem, including choking, CPR and rescue breathing, approaching a sick dog or cat, and learning what is normal for your pet. Each class is taught by a certified Red Cross Instructor. For more information, please call the Lake Norman office at 704.664.2500 or call your Charlotte office at 704.378.4638
Duration: 4 Hours

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Safety Training for Swim Coaches

Provides training in aquatic safety for competitive swim coaches, officials, athletic trainers, athletes participating in aquatic activities, aquatic exercise trainers and other individuals involved in aquatic competition and/or exercise programs.

Upon successful completion, students receive Safety Training for Swim Coaches certification valid for three years.

Course Length:  8 hour minimum
*NOTE: course fee set by individual facilities.

Requirements:

None

Small Craft Water Safety

This class will help the participant recognize, prevent and respond to small craft emergencies. The participant will learn small craft trip planning, supervision and emergency preparation. The participant will also learn how to protect themselves while assisting others. This class should be taken in conjunction with Basic Water Rescue.

For more information about this course, call Colleen Dougher at 704.347.8508 or e-mail .

Requirements:
  • Participant must be able to tread water for 1 minute without a lifejacket
  • Swim any stroke for 25 yards without a lifejacket.
  • Swim any stroke for 25 yards while wearing a lifejacket.
  • Demonstrate basic boat-handling skills for the chosen small craft being certified on.

Spanish-language First Aid with CPR/AED-Adult and Child plus CPR - Infant CPR

This course teaches how to respond to respiratory and cardiac emergencies including CPR. rescue breathing and airway obstruction in adults/infants and children. Meets state licensing requirements for day cares when taken in conjunction with First Aid.

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online
To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Standard First Aid Challenge

Challenges offer test-only recertifications. There is no lecture or review of the material. Students take a written test and a skill test only. **NO REVIEW OFFERED FOR CHALLENGES**

Duration: varies
Certification: First Aid Basics (Valid 3 years)

To register online, click here.
Instructions for registering online

To register in person, call us at 704.378.4638.

Water Safety

The American Red Cross has been the leader in aquatic training for more than 90 years. The American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Program offers a complete program for swimmers of all ages and levels – from beginners to advanced – for children from 6 months through adults of any age.  Whether you are looking for instruction for yourself or family, the American Red Cross offers a course to meet your needs.

Parent and Child Aquatics
The Parent and Child Aquatics Swim Program builds swimming readiness for children ages 6 months to 5 years by emphasizing fun in the water.

Learn-to-Swim Levels 1-6
American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim features a unique six-level approach. Courses are fun, interactive and taught by Red Cross-trained water safety instructors. The prerequisite for each level is successful demonstration of the skills taught in the preceding level. Beginners start at Level 1, which has no prerequisite.

Adult Swim Lessons
American Red Cross swim instruction is available for adults with various swimming abilities and experiences.

Land Based Water Safety Presentations
Whale’s Tales, General Water Safety, Water Safety Today, and Home Pool Safety presentations are available at your neighborhood pool and Greater Carolinas American Red Cross. Please call to inquire about scheduling presentations at your home, civic group, or association.

For more information, contact the following:

  • Aquatic Innovations, 980.329.7170
  • Charlotte Safety Training, 704.281.4986
  • Mecklenburg Aquatic Club, 704.846.5335
  • Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center, 704.336.3483
  • Rays Splash Planet, 704.432.1141
  • UNC-Charlotte, 704.547.2560

Water Safety Instructor

Instructor candidates learn how to teach water safety education, including the Basic Water Rescue course, Learn to Swim Program (6 levels) and the Parent and Child Aquatics course.

Upon successful completion, students receive Water Safety Instructor certificate valid for 3 years if you teach annually within that time period.

Course Length: 30 hours
Fee: Set by individual Aquatic Facilities

Course is offered on various dates at several locations throughout the Greater Carolinas Area.

Contact the following for more information:

  • Carolina Pool Management, 704.788.7946
  • Charlotte Aquatics, 704.341.9673
  • Charlotte Safety Training, 704.281.4986
  • Charlotte Swim Club Management, 704.766.2726
  • Mecklenburg Aquatic Club, 704.846.5335
  • Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center, 704.336.3483
  • Open Water Adventures, 704.547.5991
  • Rays Splash Planet, 704.432.1141
  • UNC-Charlotte, 704.547.2560
  • U.S. Aquatics Carolina, 704.504.3317
  • Mike Dellinger, 704.488.5396

Requirements:

16 years of age prior to last date of class.
Possess Fundamentals of Instructor Training (FIT) Certificate, or be a current American Red Cross instructor in another specialty area.
Successfully pass pre-course exam which includes: swimming 25 yards of front crawl, back crawl, breaststroke, elementary backstroke, sidestroke and 15 yards of butterfly; maintain position on back 1 minute in deep water (float or sculling); tread water for 1 minute.