April 3, 2007 > Summer Camps: Junior Lifeguard programs Summer Camps: Junior Lifeguard programs By Mona Shah Junior Lifeguard programs in the greater Tri-City area provide a camp-like program in Aquatics with instruction in first aid, CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation), and rescue techniques. Students of all abilities and skill levels, ages 9 and over, are eligible to sign up for these programs. Junior Lifeguards are taught to recognize aquatic hazards and trainees experience improved fitness and endurance, challenging both mind and body. Here is an overview of programs offered in this area. Call or visit your city's website for more information. Milpitas Jr. Lifeguard Program Upon successful completion, participants are eligible to volunteer as a Junior Lifeguard at either the Sports Center or Milpitas High School pools during the summer. Ages 10-14. Advanced Jr. Lifeguard Program Designed as a continuation to the Junior Lifeguard program. Instruction on pool safety, advanced rescue techniques, First Aid and basic CPR and swim lesson aide will be taught. The class will prepare participants for the American Red Cross Lifeguarding Training course that is offered. Upon successful completion, participants will be able to volunteer at either the Sports Center or Milpitas High School pools during the summer. Ages 13-14. Milpitas Sports Center Swimming Pool 1325 East Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas (408) 586-3225 www.ci.milpitas.ca.gov/citydept/planning/recreation Fremont: Fremont's program is run by East Bay Regional Park District and held at Quarry lakes for ages 9 to 15. Pre-testing is available, as students need pass a 25-yard swim test on the first day. Each day, Junior Lifeguards enjoy a variety of beach and water activities designed to promote self-esteem and teamwork. Two week sessions begin June 19 and run through August 11. Each session runs for one week, Monday-Friday, and is divided into two units: Morning (8 am-12pm) and Afternoon (1pm-5pm). Participants register by session and unit. For each session, participants may sign-up for the Morning unit, the Afternoon unit, or the Full day (8am-5pm). Quarry Lakes 2250 Isherwood Way, Fremont (510) 739-2020 www.ebparks.org Newark Newark's Silliman Center offers Junior Lifeguard programs three times a year (fall, spring, summer) for 11 to 14 year olds from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This program stresses stroke refinement and job preparation skills. Participants must have the ability to swim 50 yards demonstrating freestyle and breaststroke, and swim 10 yards underwater. Upon completion of the course, students are invited to interview for a volunteer Junior Lifeguard position at Silliman Center. Summer session starts June 25. Registration for residents May 1, non-residents, May 8. Silliman Activity and Family Aquatic Center 6800 Mowry Ave., Newark (510) 742-4400 www.ci.newark.ca.us Union City Union City offers a three-step program called Operation Junior Lifeguard for students 11-14 years old. Students need to finish the previous level before enrolling in subsequent classes. "Junior Lifeguard 1" is an introduction level class intended for children, ages 11 to 14 years of age, who will learn how to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies while improving swimming fitness and endurance. Level 2 will teach students emergency drills and assist instructors in swim lessons. Students will receive CPR certification for the professional rescuer. Level 1 is Monday-Thursday, 2 p.m.-6 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to Noon. Level 2 is Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Level 3 is a camp-like program, designed for ages 12 to 14, which runs Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This program helps swimmers to gear up for the Lifeguard course. Upon completion a Junior Lifeguard certification is awarded. Summer session starts June 26. Dan Oden Swim Complex 33901 Syracuse Ave., Union City (510) 471-3837 www.ci.union-city.ca.us Hayward: Junior Aquatic Water Safety (JAWS) is offered in Hayward twice a year during the Spring and Summer months. This is aquatic training for youth ages 12 years and up. This program covers causes and awareness of water hazards, water safety skills, lifeguarding procedures, basic teaching skills and stroke improvement. Those who complete the course will receive a certificate in JAWS, and be eligible to apply for a volunteer position at the swim center. Summer sessions will be announced mid-April, and classes begin on June 25. Online registration will begin May 7. Hayward Plunge 24176 Mission Blvd., Hayward (510) 881-6703 www.haywardrec.org