Red Cross Lifeguarding Written Exam study plan

List the five links in the lifeguarding rescue chain and state the purpose of each

Identify the facility's zone-of-vision coverage rules and describe how to scan a zone within 10 seconds

Demonstrate and narrate three entry types (stride, compact, shallow dive) with correct body position

Label the steps of a reach-throw-row-go-tow rescue sequence in order

Perform and explain three water rescue approaches (front, rear, and underwater) for a passive victim

Execute a two-person removal from water on a backboard, assigning rescuer roles aloud

Describe how to escape a panicked victim's grasp using two different release techniques

Differentiate when to use a rescue tube versus a rescue board based on scenario cues

Perform a submerged-victim search pattern and surface a victim within a set time limit

Explain spinal motion restriction in shallow water using the head-splint and backboard method

Sequence the steps of adult CPR (compressions, airway, breathing) and state rate and depth targets

Compare adult, child, and infant CPR compression ratios, depths, and hand placement

Deliver two minutes of uninterrupted adult compressions at the correct rate and depth on a manikin

Assemble and use a bag-valve-mask with two rescuers, maintaining a proper seal

Demonstrate rescue breathing with a pocket mask and a barrier device

Recognize and respond to an unresponsive choking adult and infant

State the sequence for integrating an AED into a CPR cycle without exceeding the 10-second analysis pause

Apply AED pads correctly on an adult, child, and (if trained) infant, and describe pad placement for each

List special AED situations (water, metal surfaces, implanted devices, medication patches) and the adjustment for each

Explain how to clear the patient and resume compressions immediately after a shock or no-shock prompt

Assess and manage a suspected head, neck, or spinal injury on land using manual stabilization

Identify signs of shock and describe positioning and monitoring steps for a conscious and unconscious patient

Demonstrate control of external bleeding with direct pressure and a pressure bandage

Describe first aid for a suspected fracture, a heat emergency, and a hypoglycemic episode

Complete a full rescue scenario from recognition through handoff to EMS within a target time

Integrate CPR and AED use into the scenario without breaking the compression cycle

Apply first-aid skills to the same patient after removal from the water

Identify and correct three common errors in your own performance using a self-review checklist

Review all four domains using spaced-repetition flashcards, targeting the weakest two areas first

Re-run the full scenario and beat the week 7 time while keeping all critical steps

Answer 60 practice questions across all domains and log every miss with a reason

List the exam-day logistics (arrival time, required equipment, ID, and any prerequisite certifications)