Ordering Options
Course Instruction Materials

Open Water Lifesaving – The United States Lifesaving Association Manual (3rd Edition), is the official manual of the USLA, published in 2017. It is the basis of instruction of American beach lifeguards and open water rescuers in accordance with USLA certification requirements. This full color book is a comprehensive reference, over 400 pages in length. Each new manual includes a unique code allowing 12-month access (from the time of registration) to a digital version, which you can view on a compatible computer, tablet, or phone. The companion website also includes quizzes you can use to test your comprehension. The USLA and Pearson are pleased to provide free access to one course instructor from each USLA certified agency, designated by the agency, for access to downloadable PowerPoint slides, quizzes, skills sheets, and lesson plans that can be used in training (request access below).

This version of the manual builds on the last two editions, with extensive updates. It's front-loaded with basic information for rookie academy training, but retains and expands on reference material for experienced lifeguard supervisors and managers. There is extensive information on the aquatic environment, a thorough explanation of the drowning process, how to perform a rescue in a variety of circumstances, use of basic and advanced rescue equipment, medical care of injuries specific to the aquatic environment, search and rescue procedures, incident command in an aquatic environment, junior lifeguard programs, and much more. Photos and diagrams help demonstrate challenging maneuvers, like in-water resuscitation. The editorial committee for the book included lifesaving experts from across America.

The ISBN number for this book is 978-1-323-58456-9. It replaces our former book, The United States Lifesaving Association Manual of Open Water Lifesaving (2nd Edition), published in 2003. Get the current version to ensure that your training and information are up to date!

Ordering Options:

    Pearson Custom Publishing (Our publisher - US and Canada only) 

 .  Marine Rescue Products (Including purchase orders and vendor set-up)

    Purchase order through the publisher - Call: 800-922-0579 (Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., eastern)

    Have the publisher set up as a vendor for your agency, click here to send an email request.

Course Instruction Materials:

    The USLA and Pearson are pleased to provide free access to one course instructor from each USLA certified agency, designated by the agency, for access to downloadable PowerPoint slides, quizzes, skills sheets, and lesson plans that can be used in training. Instructors will need to register with the USLA and be approved. NOTE: Applicants should seek approval from the agency director prior to requesting this access. The USLA will defer to the agency director with respect to the agency training officer who will receive access.