Loyalist Township partners with Lakeshore Pool to offer lifeguarding progams

This summer, Loyalist Township is offering select aquatic lifesaving and lifeguarding programs through an agreement with the Lakeshore Swimming Association.

According to a release from the Township, the partnership will allow Loyalist Township to offer essential Lifeguarding programs at a lower rate in recognition of the financial barriers that may have prevented individuals from taking these courses in the past. While these lifeguarding programs provide lifesaving skills that are in high demand in today’s job market, the Township noted that the lifeguarding experience provides leadership qualities that will pay dividends for any career pathway.

“Loyalist Township is pleased to partner with Lakeshore Swimming Association to offer these in demand credentials to its residents and help prepare our youth with knowledge and skills for a great employment experience,” said Loyalist Mayor Jim Hegadorn. “Through this partnership, we are able to lower the financial burden of these courses and make lifeguarding an option for more of our residents.”

The lifesaving programs offered through this proposed partnership will include:

• Lifesaving Instructor: July 8, 9, 15, and 16 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Bronze Medallion: July 17 to 21 (daily) from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Bronze Cross: August 7 to 11(daily) from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Recently, Ontario announced that it is lowering the minimum age to work as a lifeguard to 15 years old. This aligns with the minimum age to take the National Lifeguard course. By offering these courses at a lower rate, Loyalist Township said it is providing the opportunity for youth to get certified and take advantage of many opportunities to work as a lifeguard in the region. A separate certification is needed to teach swimming lessons, however the age change also applies to instructors.

“The Lakeshore Pool Board of Directors are pleased to be able to offer this partnership with Loyalist Township. It provides greater opportunities for area youth to access much needed advanced training programs to help them become future lifeguards for our communities,” stated Andrew Cotton, President of the Lakeshore Swimming Pool Association.

Lakeshore Swimming Association is a private aquatic facility located at 792 Henderson Blvd in Kingston and was founded in 1971 as a non-for-profit seasonal swimming pool facility. Learn more about the facility on their website: https://lakeshorepoolkingston.net/

The Township noted that courses are dependent upon availability of instructors. Find more information and sign up for these courses on the Loyalist Township website.