SAN ANGELO, Texas — As summer approaches, West Texas residents and students are gearing up for water safety courses offered by the City of San Angelo's Parks and Recreation Department and Angelo State University. With the aim of fostering a safer aquatic environment and providing employment opportunities, these courses are essential for those interested in becoming lifeguards.
"We also offer WSI courses, which is water safety instructor courses and lifeguard courses," ASU Aquatics and Facilities assistant director, Corbett Snoe, said. "Our next water safety instructor course is May 20 through the 23."
The courses are conducted in collaboration with the American Red Cross, ensuring nationally-recognized certification.
"The costs for our WSI courses are $60 for students who wish to work as water safety instructors for us during the summer," Snoe said. "For our lifeguard course, we offer sessions during spring break and after graduation."
The lifeguard course, open to anyone 16 and older, is designed to equip participants with essential skills for ensuring pool safety.
"We certify people that work at Brown’s pool and elsewhere all the time," he added.
Participants undergo rigorous training, including CPR and AED certification, ensuring they are well-prepared for emergencies.
"Our lifeguarding course is open to anyone that wants to become certified and avail of summer job opportunities," Snoe said.
While the courses primarily cater to individuals seeking summer employment, they also offer valuable skills for personal development.
"Even if you don't want to be a lifeguard, it's always fun to try new things," Snoe said. "It opens a lot of doors that you didn't know you wanted open."
The lifeguarding course covers various scenarios, including shallow water rescues, suited for San Angelo's pool environments.
"We primarily focus on shallow water training, but also provide skills applicable to deep water environments," he said.
Applying for the courses is simple, with online applications available through ASU and the City's website.
"Myself and my recreational manager will run through classes in order to certify our lifeguards, as well as recertify if needed," COSA Recreation Coordinator, Belen Castro, said. "If you really want to have a good summer job that teaches you responsibility, and where you can create a community this is a job for you."
The courses not only ensure safety, they also offer participants an opportunity for personal growth and career advancement.
"It might seem scary at first, but once you get through the training, you'll feel confident in your abilities," Castro said.
Angelo State’s next WSI courses are set to begin May 20, and the San Angelo Recreation Division will certify all lifeguards who complete the hiring process free of charge.
For more information or to apply, visit the City of San Angelo website's job section, or visit Angelo State’s website.