Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone in partnership with the Parks department today announced that the Junior Lifeguard program is returning this summer. This free program is an opportunity for children ages 5-14 to learn from professional lifeguards at two of our County beaches, Meschutt and Smith Point.
“Our Junior Lifeguard program plays an invaluable role in educating our youth,” said Suffolk County Executive Bellone. “This program goes beyond teaching lifesaving skills; it instills a deep sense of responsibility, teamwork, and community engagement.”
"What better way to learn about ocean safety than from our 9-time national championship County Lifeguards,” said Jason Smagin, Commissioner, Suffolk County Parks Department. “These skills learned are important at every age, and this is a great opportunity for children and future guards to learn and expand their abilities.”
Taking place on Saturdays throughout the month of July, this skills-based program will help to introduce and expand knowledge of the ocean and the shoreline to our younger swimmers. Working with our County lifeguards, students will get the chance to participate in training drills while also interacting with each other. Through this unique program the Suffolk County Junior Lifeguards will develop confidence in the ocean and increase physical fitness and respect for one another and the coastal environment.
Classes will be held on July 8th and July 15th at the still water beach at Meschutt County Park and on July 22nd and July 29th at Smith Point County Park.
No prior registration is required and attendees are expected to meet at the lifeguard station at 8:45 AM.
For more information, please contact our Parks department at SCParks@suffolkcountyny.gov or call 631-854-4949.