Sign-ups are underway online for Hawaii County’s summer 2018 Junior Lifeguard Program for East and West Hawaii.
The course will familiarize participants with ocean safety and beach rescue skills. Topics include an introduction to water safety, first aid, CPR and surf rescue techniques with an emphasis on beach and ocean awareness.
The program is open to male and female applicants ages 12-17. Applicants must have swimming skills and be able to swim for 100 yards continuously with 100 percent effort. It is not a learn-to-swim program. Qualifying swims will take place on the first day of sessions, which also will be registration days.
The program is free to all registered participants. A parent or guardian must be present to sign a waiver form at the time of registration.
Registration is on a first come, first serve basis or sign up online at https://bigislandjrlifeguards.surfsignup.com.
There is a limit of 30 students per session, but the limit might be adjusted based on instructor availability.
The session dates are:
• Session 1: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. June 18 through June 22,
• Session 2: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. June 25 through June 29
• Session 3: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. July 9 through July 13
• Session 4: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. July 16 through July 20
Onsite registration will be conducted on the first day of each session at the following locations:
East Hawaii
Hilo: Richardson’s Ocean Park
Puna: Ahalanui Beach Park
Ka‘u : Punaluu Beach Park
West Hawaii
Kona: Kahaluu Beach Park
Hapuna: Hapuna Beach Park
The program is sponsored by Hawaii County, Hawaii Fire Department Ocean Safety, the Hawaii Tourism Authority and Hawaiian Lifeguard Association.
For more information, call Capt. John Baehr at 756-2827.