The Kaua‘i Junior Lifeguard program released applications for its 2011 programs, which will start June 13 to 15 at the Salt Pond Beach Park. Application forms are available at all of the lifeguard towers located throughout the island as well
The Kaua‘i Junior Lifeguard program released applications for its 2011 programs, which will start June 13 to 15 at the Salt Pond Beach Park.
Application forms are available at all of the lifeguard towers located throughout the island as well as from the Kaua‘i Fire Department headquarters located in the Hale Pumehana Building across from the Lihu‘e Big Save, states a county release.
Participants are encouraged to register early because there will be a limit of 50 participants for each of the five sites where the programs will be held.
A copy of the participant’s birth certificate needs to be attached to the completed registration form.
To be eligible for the Junior Lifeguard workshop, participants must be committed to the challenges the program offers and must be able to swim and run 100 yards, non-stop without assistance.
The Junior Lifeguard program is free for young people between the ages of 13 to 17 years old and teaches ocean safety and lifesaving skills. Additionally, the program covers drug awareness, physical conditioning and competition skills.
Salt Pond is the first site where the program will take place. Following Salt Pond Beach Park, instructors will be at Lydgate Park, June 20 to 24, Hanalei, June 27 to July 1; Po‘ipu Beach Park, July 11 to 15; and Kalapaki Beach, July 18 to 22.
Sessions at all of the sites run Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and participants need to bring their own lunch, sunscreen and a towel to the training program daily.
Following the completion of all the sites, last year’s programs saw an island finals in various competitive events geared toward ocean safety and lifesaving skills.
Finalists at the island finals advance to the state Junior Lifeguard meet where Kaua‘i is the current reigning champion.
Kaua‘i Junior Lifeguard participants have won the state title for the past seven years.
The Hawaiian Lifeguard Association, the County of Kaua‘i, the Kaua‘i Lifeguard Association and numerous community businesses and individuals make the Junior Lifeguard program possible.
Call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 241-4984 or 241-4979 for more information.
