Date: May 1, 2008
Contact: Patrick Burns, Junior Lifeguard Instructor, (508) 349-3785 ext. 318
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 the towns of Wellfleet and Orleans.
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. 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 these training areas. In addition, participants will be trained in ocean lifeguard operations. The program begins July 7th and runs through August 11th. Participants meet at Marconi Beach on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday each week, from 9:30 AM. to 12:30 PM. Participation is free, but contingent upon 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. Another session conducted by the United States Coast Guard includes a tour of its Provincetown station and, weather permitting, a boat patrol/tour of Provincetown's coastal environment. Junior lifeguards will also work with National Park Service interpretive rangers during surf rescue demonstrations 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 Marconi Beach Lifeguard Patrick Burns at 508-349-3785 ext. 318 to schedule a pre-course interview and register for the program.
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