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The Greater Edisto Chapter of the American Red Cross is inviting all high schoolers, college students and even adults with spare time to sign up for the new lifeguard courses beginning Wednesday, May 7.

Lifeguards help keep community pools open and the state's beaches and lakes safe for everyone. It's the lifeguard's job to make sure water conditions are secure for swimming and visitors' activities in and near the water are free from danger.

There is a high demand for trained and certified lifeguards in South Carolina. By enrolling in the ARC lifeguard program, individuals can increase their chances at finding a job they will enjoy this summer and obtain skills that can help keep them employed year-round.

There is more to being a lifeguard than having to be a good swimmer and sitting by the water all day, however. Lifeguard candidates also receive professional CPR/Automated External Defibrillator and first-aid training. Upon successful completion of the program, lifeguards become certified in first aid for three years and receive a one-year CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer certificate.

In addition to the life-saving training lifeguards receive, the Red Cross lifeguard training program also provides professional development. When candidates train to be a lifeguard, they learn how to develop leadership skills, handle conflict resolution and team build with fellow lifeguards.

To enroll in the program, individuals must be at least 15 years old, be a strong swimmer and able to successfully complete all course requirements.

For more information on becoming a lifeguard or a list of area training locations, call Jeremy Jeffcoat at 803-534-5735 or visit www.greateredisto.redcross.org.

Special to The T&D

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