A lifeguard is pictured entering the water during a prior YMCA lifeguard training course.

The Jamestown YMCA is offering a free blended learning lifeguard class.

Upon successful completion of the class students will be certified in ARC Waterfront Lifeguarding, CPR-Pro, AED and first aid.

“It seems all companies are having a hard time finding help and aquatics has the added challenge of needing well trained staff who are willing to do a job that matters. It is one thing to try to get someone’s order right on your first day; but at a pool you could be called on to save a life … every time a patron walks on your deck. The potential for bad things to happen that you, as the lifeguard, have to correct is always present. In my 30-plus years in aquatics I have never seen such a shortage of guards,” said Jason Chinni, YMCA aquatic director. “I feel this could get worse with fewer high school and college students joining the profession. A great solution would be more adults entering the field looking for some part time work that has true meaning, which would be great to see.”

The Y’s class will start with the pre-test on Sept. 8 at 5:30 p.m. or Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. All candidates must pass the pre-test to be allowed to register for the class.

“I always find it amazing the number of folks who want to be a lifeguard, but lack swimming ability. Our goal is to certify everyone who is qualified and candidates who want to take the class but are out of practice are encouraged to contact us at the Y so we can see how we can help them,” Chinni said.

Once the pre-test is passed the class will consist of at home course work and in-person skills practice. The in-person classes will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 18, 19, 25 and 26.

To qualify for the free class participants must be at least 18 years of age and pass the pretest. To qualify for the free certification participant must pass the class and be hired by the Jamestown YMCA. Students under 18 years of age the cost of the class is $125. Students over 18 years of age that pass the class and choose not to work for the Jamestown YMCA will be assessed a $75 certification processing fee.

For more information email Chinni at jchinni@jamestownymca.org or Maria Roehmholdt at maria@jamestownymca.org.

The pre-test consists of a 550-yard swim using breast and free, retrieving 10 pound object off the bottom and swimming with it, 2 minutes treading and retrieving rings spaced underwater.