Free Lifeguard Training for Residents

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 2, 2019

 

Aquatics Office: (202) 671-1289

Media Contact: Michael Tucker, Jr. (DPR) - (202) 717-4242; michael.tucker@dc.gov

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

Bowser Administration Offers Free Lifeguard Training for Residents

 

Multiple DC Recreation Centers Will Provide Certification and Opportunity to Join the DC Government as a Lifeguard

 

(Washington, DC) - Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) announced it will provide free lifeguard training certification courses in preparation for summer 2020. DPR will offer these courses at various aquatic centers through July 2020, waiving all fees.  Starting July 1, 2020, the courses will be available for a nominal fee.  Applicants can register now.

"Summers are very busy at District pools. With a focus on the safety of our residents, certifying lifeguards early means moving highly qualified candidates towards the hiring process sooner," said DPR Director Delano Hunter.

DPR employs the International Lifeguard Training Program (ILTP) to train and certify lifeguards to work both indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities throughout the District. The ILTP is an objective-driven program that produces lifeguards that perform at a higher level than those of other national/international training agencies. Lifeguard candidates must successfully pass written and practical (“hands-on”) tests.  ILTP Course Completion Certificate can be used to gain employment at any aquatic facility in the world.  

All candidates must pass the prerequisite screening on the first day of class which includes the following:

 

• 100 yard swim (continuous using an approach stroke, freestyle or breaststroke).

 

• Retrieve a 10-pound dive brick from the deepest part of the training facility.

 

• Tread water without the use of your hands for one minute.

 

• Exit the pool unassisted and without the use of steps or a ladder.

 

Employment at DPR 

 

Beginning at age 15, individuals can be hired at DPR as lifeguards starting at $13.95/hour.  All lifeguards employed at DPR must maintain a valid ILTP certification.  Lifeguards are expected to maintain their skills at a “test-ready” level at all times and are subject to unannounced aquatic safety audits. 

 

Please note that DPR lifeguards are in a “safety-sensitive” position and are subject to suitability screening.  Passing the ILTP course does not guarantee employment with DPR. 

To register for an upcoming certification course, visit DPR.DC.GOV.  For questions concerning lifeguard training, visit DPR.events.

 

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