Lifeguard certification courses scheduled at Hawai‘i County pools

Lifeguard certification courses with Hawai‘i County’s Department of Parks and Recreation is scheduled in September and October at public pools in Hilo, Kona and Pāhoa.

The American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification courses are open to participants who will be 15 years old on or before the final scheduled session of the lifeguarding course. In addition, participants must complete two prerequisite swimming skills evaluations.

“Providing our residents with essential lifesaving skills while opening doors to career development is crucial for the sustainability of our island home,” said Mayor Mitch Roth. “We recognize the growing workforce demands across the island, and by equipping individuals with these vital skills, we aim to help fill critical roles not only within the County but throughout our entire community. Our commitment is to ensure that our workforce is prepared to meet the challenges of today and the opportunities of tomorrow.”

The certification courses, which include deep water training, will be held at the following locations and times:

• NAS Swimming Pool (Hilo): Fridays, Sept. 6 – Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• Pāhoa Community Aquatic Center: Oct. 7-11 (DOE Fall Break), 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Kona Community Aquatic Center: Sept. 16-20, 6:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

“Lifeguards perform a vital role in our community by enhancing the safety of our pools and beach parks,” said Maurice Messina, Director of Parks & Recreation. “By equipping more people with life-saving skills and increasing the number of certified lifeguards in our community, we not only ensure our County pools are fully staffed, we also build a stronger, safer County of Hawai‘i.”

Each course costs $121, and payment can be made on the first day of the course. To register, contact the pools directly.

For more information about pre-requisites and pool contact information, visit the Department of Parks & Recreation Aquatics Section web page here.