PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is administering conditional Surf Lifeguard Certification tests today and next week in Narragansett. Lifeguard positions at all beaches in Rhode Island require certification and special training in first aid, CPR, and lifeguard training. Walk-in candidates are allowed for today's testing and must arrive prior to 2 p.m.

The schedule of testing is as follows:

May 20, May 25 and June 10 | 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Scarborough North State Beach, Narragansett Surf tests for lifeguards working at all types of swimming facilities

June 9 and June 23 | 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Prosser Grove Picnic Area, Burlingame State Park, Charlestown Non-surf tests for lifeguards working at freshwater/bayside beaches

To qualify for testing, all candidates must have successfully completed courses and hold valid cards in lifeguard training, first aid, and CPR that includes infant, child, and adult. They must be at least 15 years of age and present a photo ID with verification of date of birth. Any candidate under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to sign the waiver/application form or obtain one from RI State Parks Headquarters prior to the testing date. Waivers can be requested by contacting Tom Rosa at 401-667-6206 or tom.rosa@dem.ri.gov. There is a $10 fee (exact change or check only) for the state certification card, which must be paid prior to the card being issued.

To help reduce wait times at the testing sites, lifeguard candidates are encouraged to pre-register for their examination online at www.riparks.com/lifeguard.

In case of inclement weather, contact RI State Parks headquarters at 401-667-6200 for cancellation information.

Full-time lifeguard positions are available at state swimming areas, including saltwater beaches such as Misquamicut, Roger Wheeler, and Scarborough, non-surf beaches such as Goddard, and freshwater beaches such as Burlingame Campground and Lincoln Woods State Park. Hourly rates for lifeguards range from $13.25 to $16.25 an hour, based on location and position level.

For more information on becoming a lifeguard, visit www.riparks.com. For more information about DEM divisions and programs, visit www.dem.ri.gov.

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