Imperial Beach, Silver Strand Junior Lifeguard Tryouts Begin

Imperial Beach and Silver Strand State Beach junior lifeguard programs started last week and will continue Saturday.

Young waterbugs can play games and learn about the ocean, being a lifeguard and basic life-saving skills in both programs.

Imperial Beach will be held May 11 and 18 from 9-11 a.m. at the Mar Vista High School pool.

Silver Strand tryouts will be held June 1, June 8, June 22 and July 20 from 10 a.m. to noon on the bay side of Silver Strand State Beach near Tower #9.

Tryouts are not required for returning Silver Strand participants.

To qualify for the Imperial Beach Lifeguard Program, applicants must:

• Swim 100 yards in less than three minutes
• Tread water for three minutes
• Swim 10 yards underwater

Actual times required to complete 100-yard swim varies by age group and program.

The Imperial Beach Junior Lifeguard Program will take place from June 17 to July 19 and two sessions of the Silver Strand Junior Lifeguard Program will take place from June 21 to July 19 and July 22 and Aug. 16.

Both programs are for kids ages nine to 16.

The Imperial Beach Junior Lifeguard Program costs $375.

The Silver Strand State Beach Junior Lifeguard Program costs $325.

Financial aid is available for both programs.