Certifications

Be Prepared: Safety Certifications at the YMCA

If you’re looking to boost your confidence in case of emergencies, enhance your resume, or simply be a reliable helping hand in your community, becoming certified through a safety training course at the YMCA is a practical, empowering step toward making a real difference.

The YMCA offers nationally recognized safety certification programs led by experienced instructors in a welcoming, supportive environment. Whether you’re a parent, coach, teacher, caregiver, or want to be ready when it matters most, our courses provide the essential life-saving skills you need. Enroll today and gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to act when every second counts.

Keep scrolling to learn more about the certifications we offer.

Learn First Aid and CPR

The YMCA offers American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) basic First Aid Courses. In this course, participants will learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of injuries and sudden illness. This class teaches crucial information about how to deal with emergencies like bleeding, shock, burns, strains, fractures, allergic reactions, diabetic emergencies, and seizures. 

We also offer ASHI Community CPR and AED training programs, providing workplace and community training in performing CPR and using an automated external defibrillator (AED). The goal of this skills-based training is to help students develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to respond in a medical emergency.

Get Certified as a Lifeguard & Be Ready to Save Lives

Due to our abundance of rivers, lakes, and canals, Idaho frequently has more deaths by drowning than any other state, and is second in the nation for drowning deaths in children. You can make a significant difference in our community by becoming certified through the YMCA as a Lifeguard, Swim Instructor, or Aquatics Safety Assistant.

This nationally recognized certification includes Basic Life Support (BLS), Adult & Pediatric First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen Use through the American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI). You’ll learn everything from rescue skills and accident prevention to emergency response and spinal injury management—plus, how to land a job in the field.

Whether you’re looking for a summer job, building your resume, or want to protect your community, this comprehensive course gives you the confidence and skills to act when it matters most.

• Train in open water and pool environments
• Learn life-saving rescue techniques
• Complete classroom, in-water, and e-learning modules
• Must be 16+ and pass a swim and skills test

Child and Babysitting Safety

Babysitting is more than just watching kids—it’s a big responsibility. That’s why a babysitting safety course is one of the smartest steps young caregivers can take. At the YMCA, we equip tweens and teens with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to handle real-life situations safely and responsibly.

Here’s why this course is a great idea for younger children and teens:

• Builds Responsibility: Kids learn how to care for infants and children, manage behavior, and understand their role as a caregiver.
• Teaches Emergency Preparedness: Courses include first aid and CPR, so babysitters know what to do in case of emergencies.
• Boosts Confidence: With hands-on practice and expert instruction, students leave feeling ready to take on babysitting jobs safely and successfully.
• Encourages Good Decision-Making: From setting boundaries to handling tricky situations, students learn how to make smart, safe choices while on the job.
• Looks Great on Applications: Babysitting certifications show responsibility and leadership—perfect for resumes, school applications, and future job opportunities.

The YMCA’s babysitting safety courses are designed to give young people the tools they need to succeed. Whether they’re babysitting siblings, neighbors, or starting their own small business, it’s the best way to start safely.

This one-day course offers a Child & Babysitting Safety (CABS) certification and CPR/AED certification.

Belay and Climb with Confidence

Take your climbing skills to new heights! The YMCA’s Belay Certification Course is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to climb safely and responsibly at our indoor climbing walls or in Idaho’s wilderness.

In this course, you’ll learn essential skills, including how to safely control ropes for your partner, tie secure climbing knots, and use proper climbing communication commands. These fundamentals are key to ensuring a safe and successful climb every time.

Upon successful completion, participants will be certified to belay during designated climbing times at the YMCA climbing walls, giving you the chance to practice, build strength, and gain confidence before heading out on your next adventure. With Idaho’s incredible natural landscape, having a strong belay foundation is the first step toward enjoying some of the best climbing and hiking destinations in the country.

Whether you’re climbing for fun, fitness, or to explore the natural beauty of Idaho, this certification sets you on a safe and exciting path. Let’s get you ready for the ropes!

You Can be the Difference

Serving our community starts with being prepared, and there’s no better way to do that than by learning first aid and safety procedures. Whether you’re responding to everyday injuries, supporting someone in crisis, or simply knowing what to do until help arrives, your knowledge can save lives. By becoming educated in first aid, CPR, water safety, and other safety practices, you’re not just protecting your loved ones, you’re becoming a reliable, capable resource your entire community can count on.

It’s a powerful way to give back, build confidence, and be ready when it matters most.