Lifeguards back at work

Scott Page/Gulf Breeze News As of March 1, lifeguards returned to guarding Casino Beach on Pensacola Beach. As the season gets busier, more public beaches will be lifeguarded, and the SRIA is accepting applications for lifeguards for the coming ear.

As spring approaches, Pensacola Beach Lifeguards are back guarding Casino Beach. Staffing will increase in April and all of the designated swimming areas will be staffed in May.

The Gulf continues to be a potentially dangerous place. Lifeguards rescued 10 distressed swimmers in February and several more were rescued by local surfers. The rip currents have been very powerful, even in very small surf. It is always safest to swim where Lifeguards are present. The public needs to carefully monitor the surf warning flags and, if they choose to swim, they must always swim with extra caution due to the cool water and currents.

The Pensacola Beach Lifeguard new candidate run/swim test will be held on March 8 at the UWF Pool and Track. Candidates should arrive at the pool by 8:30 a.m. The test consists of a 600 yard swim which must be completed in 10 minutes or less and a 1.5 mile run in 12 minutes or less. Candidates must be at least 16 years of age, possess a current A.R.C Lifeguard card and possess/be able to obtain a Florida Driver's License.Entry level pay is $13.33/hour.

For details, call the Santa Rosa Island Authority at 932-2256.