Over eight consecutive Saturdays this summer, 100 kids hopped on the ferry to Atlantique Beach on Fire Island to participate in a program that would teach them water safety and introduced them to the duties and responsibilities of an ocean lifeguard. The kids, all part of the 2019 Open Water Swim Jr. Lifeguard program practiced life-saving techniques, identified dangerous water conditions, and learned to use rescue equipment.
The program, open to children aged 9 through 16, does not offer a certification to become lifeguards. Participants got the chance to develop the basics that would help them in open water swimming. This is the second year the program has been held.
On Saturday, August 24th, the kids graduated from the program and got the chance to demonstrate their new skills at Atlantique Beach.
"This is a great introduction for children to develop confidence in open water, as well as to learn life-saving skills at a very early age," said Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter in a statement released by the town about the program.
Participants performed swimming races and drills during the demonstration and were presented with medals.
The program was taught by Bryan Krut, owner of Open Water Swim, a Bay Shore-based school that trains people to swim in open water.
"This is a fantastic program for youth,” Kurt said. “The improvement in the childrens' skills from early July to the end of August is remarkable. In addition to building a foundation to prepare for the NYS Level 1 Ocean Lifeguard Test, the program builds self-esteem and character.”
