Junior Lifeguard Program tryouts May 23 and 30
Volusia County Beach Safety will continue to offer its popular Junior Lifeguard Program this summer, with enhanced measures to ensure the safety of participants.
From June 8 through the end of July, youths between 9 and 15 can enjoy beach activities while learning lifesaving techniques. During the week-long camp, professional lifeguards will offer participants a chance to learn about water safety and first-aid techniques. Junior lifeguards will also take part in daily team relays involving surfboard paddling, swimming, running and beach flags.
The Junior Lifeguard Program is not a learn to swim program. To qualify, junior lifeguards must be able to swim 100 yards within two minutes and 15 seconds, tread water for five minutes, and swim under water 10 feet.
Candidates may take the physical skills test on Saturday, May 23 or 30 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Southeast Volusia YMCA, 148 W. Turgot Ave., Edgewater, or from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Ormond Beach YMCA, 500 Sterthaus Drive.
If a child cannot attend either tryout, a limited number of slots are available for try-out at the ocean the Monday morning of camp. To reserve a Monday morning tryout, email jrlifeguard@volusia.org and include the desired camp date.
Candidates may register for the summer camps after passing the physical skills test. Registration is open and can be completed at www.volusia.org/beach. Returning junior lifeguards do not have to take the physical skills test and may register at any time. Tuition is due upon registration. The cost for a one-week camp is $150.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, additional measures have been put in place to mitigate any potential risk. Efforts include splitting campers in to smaller groups, temperature checks, discontinuation of community water jugs in favor of individual bottles, staggered lunch breaks and safety checks.
