Date: March 11, 2009
Contact: Bob Grant, Chief Ranger, 508-957-0735
This summer, Cape Cod National Seashore will be offering a Junior Lifeguard Program, for boys and girls, 13 to 16 years old. The purpose of the program is to promote water safety on Cape Cod by reaching out to area youth. In addition, junior lifeguards are often excellent candidates to fill paid senior lifeguard positions at the seashore, in the future.
Participants in the Junior Lifeguard Program will be instructed by National Park Service lifeguards in CPR, first aid, and lifeguard training. In addition, participants will be trained in ocean lifeguard operations, rescue equipment, and rescue skills. The program begins July 6, 2009, and runs through August 14. Participants meet Monday, Wednesday, and Friday each week, from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Admission to the program is free.
All potential candidates must complete a pre-season evaluation consisting of a 500-yard swim, ½ mile run, and interview. Each session begins with a daily work-out on the beach. Approximately twelve applicants will be selected for the program.
In addition to formal lifeguard training, one session is dedicated to teaching the participants about natural, and cultural, resources in the park. Another session will be led by an interpretive ranger, to learn about various programs available in the park. A third session will be conducted by a National Park Service wildland firefighter, to talk about various aspects of prescribed fire and the effects of fire on the landscape. A fourth session, will be conducted by the United States Coast Guard, and will include a boat patrol/tour of the park’s coastal environment.
The Junior Lifeguard Program will develop knowledge, and job skills, necessary for local youth to qualify for ocean lifeguard positions, at Cape Cod National Seashore. The program will be fun and exciting with both physical oriented work-outs, and classroom exercises.
All applicants must contact Chief Ranger Bob Grant at 508-957-0735, to register for the program, and sign-up for a pre-course evaluation.
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