Swim test times set for aspiring Laguna Beach Junior Lifeguards

Tests for acceptance into Laguna Beach’s summer Junior Lifeguard Program will be held on several Fridays and Saturdays through July at the Laguna Beach community pool, 670 Park Ave.

Boys and girls ages 8 to 11 must swim 100 yards, or four pool lengths, in 2 minutes 20 seconds to qualify for the lifeguard program. Children ages 12 to 15 must cover the distance in 1:50, according to a program description on the city’s website.

Returning lifeguards from 2015 do not have to take the swim test. The lifeguard program, which is designed to instruct youths in ocean skills, will be broken down into two three-week sessions. Students may choose from June 27 to July 14 or July 18 through Aug. 4.

City marine safety staff will teach the program, which focuses on ocean safety, rescue techniques, beach activities and physical fitness.

Early registration discounts ended Monday, so Laguna residents and non-residents must pay the same fee: $290 for the first session and $305 for the second, according to the website.

All Friday swim tests will be offered from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Saturday tests will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information about the program, visit bit.ly/jrguards.