Registration Underway for North Myrtle Beach Winter Junior Lifeguard Training Camp

Registration is underway for the Winter North Myrtle Beach Junior Lifeguard Training Camp, managed by the North Myrtle Beach Public Safety Department’s Beach Patrol. The training camp is open to people ages 10-15. Classes will be held at the North Myrtle Beach Aquatic & Fitness Center January 26-March 15 on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6:45 p.m.-8:15 p.m. Participants must attend all classes to be eligible for graduation.

To qualify to participate in the training camp, a person must be able to tread water continuously for three minutes, swim 100 yards continuously using front crawl with rhythmic breathing, and complete a 20 yard brick tow. The Junior Lifeguard program can serve as a pathway for a successful graduate to become a member of the City’s paid summer ocean lifeguard program when a graduate reaches employment age and meets ocean lifeguard qualifying requirements.

Junior Lifeguard Training Camp participants will be trained in proper stroke mechanics; reaching, walking and throwing assists; caring for head, neck and back injuries; how to escape a rip current; water safety; rescue board techniques; first aid; basic rescue skills; cardiopulmonary resuscitation; and automated external defibrillation. Participants who successfully complete the course will be certified in American Red Cross adult and child cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Participants should bring with them to training camp swim goggles, towel, an extra change of clothes, swim cap, sunscreen, and water or a sport drink. It is recommended that females wear one piece bathing suits during aquatic activities.

The winter registration fee is $25. Checks should be made payable to: North Myrtle Beach Aquatic & Fitness Center. The registration fee includes a Junior Lifeguard backpack that will be issued to those participants who successfully complete the training camp.

Participants are also encouraged to join the U.S. Lifesaving Association (USLA). USLA is a nonprofit lifeguard association promoting safety, education and training. A one year membership is $100.

For more information, contact the Beach Patrol at (843) 281-3820.

Information is also available at www.nmboceanrescue.com and www.Facebook.com/northmyrtlebeachoceanlifeguards