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Become a lifeguard

Train for the Lifeguard Award with South Africa's first lifesaving club.

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The Lifeguard Course

Turn your passion for the ocean into a valuable lifesaving skill

Our Lifeguard Course is designed to give you the knowledge, skills and confidence you need to become a qualified lifeguard and play an important role in keeping our beaches safe.

The course runs over approximately two weeks, depending on your swimming ability, fitness and training progress. You’ll be guided throughout the course by our experienced instructor, who will teach you everything you need to know — from lifesaving techniques and ocean awareness to the practical skills required to respond confidently in an emergency.

How to join

New Lifeguard Award — R4 500

Once your instructor feels that you are fully prepared, you will be entered for the lifeguard examination, which consists of two parts:

  • Written theory examination — testing your knowledge and understanding of lifesaving principles and procedures.
  • Practical examination — demonstrating your ability to perform the required lifesaving skills in a practical environment.

The course fee includes:

  • Your Durban Surf membership for 1 year
  • All required course materials
  • Lifeguard training and instruction
  • Preparation for your examination

Whether you're looking to start a career in lifesaving, work on the beach, develop valuable emergency skills, or simply challenge yourself, becoming a lifeguard is an incredibly rewarding experience.

Ready to take the first step? Choose New Lifeguard Award on the Join page. Places are limited, so the club confirms your course dates once your application is in. Attach the signed membership form and the signed indemnity form — both are on the Join page — and attach a copy of your ID.

Join as a new lifeguardAsk the office
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