Seashore to Host Junior Lifeguard Program for 2013

Date: May 3, 2013
Contact: Gordon Miller, North District Lifeguard Supervisor, 508-487-2100 ext. 0923

Cape Cod National Seashore will once again offer its Junior Lifeguard Program for boys and girls ages 13 to 16 this summer. The purpose of the program is to promote water safety and provide job-specific training on Cape Cod by reaching out to area youth. Past junior lifeguards currently work as ocean lifeguards for the seashore and several towns on Cape Cod.

Participants in the Junior Lifeguard Program will be instructed by National Park Service lifeguards in CPR, first aid, and lifeguard training. Approximately 16 applicants will be selected for the program. Those participants who will be 15 years old or older before the end of the program and who satisfactorily complete all requirements will receive American Red Cross certifications in the training areas. In addition, participants will be trained in ocean lifeguard operations. The program begins on Monday, July 8th and runs through Monday, August 12th. Participants meet at Marconi Beach on Monday, Wednesday and Friday each week, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Participation is free, but contingent upon satisfactory completion of a 1/3 mile open ocean swim followed immediately by a 1/2 mile run at Marconi Beach on the first day of the program. Water temperatures at Marconi Beach are usually near 55 degrees F in early July, and the use of wetsuits will not be allowed for the initial swim-run.

Participants will learn about a range of interesting topics beyond formal lifeguard training. One session is taught by National Park Service wildland firefighters who will discuss various aspects of prescribed fire and the effects of fire on the landscape, and instruct junior lifeguards in the use of fire extinguishers. If scheduling permits, other sessions may be conducted by the United States Coast Guard at its Provincetown station, and National Park Service law enforcement rangers at Marconi Beach.

The Junior Lifeguard Program includes arduous physical activity, occasionally in high surf conditions. Participants may swim in rip currents, and complete beach runs up to five miles.

All applicants must contact Gordon Miller, North District Head Lifeguard at [phone] ext 0923 or [e-mail] to schedule a pre-course interview and register for the program.

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