Those looking to join the Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service (NSLS) this summer should submit their applications before March 2. Job offers will go out in mid-April.

The lifeguarding season runs from the end of June to the end of August. Applicants must possess the National Lifeguard certification, a Standard First Aid course, and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) level C.

As part of the selection process, applicants must complete a timed 500-metre swim, a timed 3.2-kilometre run, and a timed standardized 50-metre Manikin Carry event (according to Lifesaving Society Standards).

Lifeguards can apply to the Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service. For more information, check online at http://www.nsls.ns.ca/employment

The Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service strives to staff its beaches with local lifeguards. If there is no qualified local staff available, the NSLS will hire staff from other areas and provide living accommodations.

The newest beach to be staffed with lifeguards is Point Michaud Beach on Cape Breton Island. This is a protected beach and provincial park. It boasts three kilometres of sand shore and sandbar surf breaks. Point Michaud Beach is Cape Breton’s No. 1 surf destination for the summertime.

There are many other lifeguarded beaches throughout Nova Scotia and some of them do have surfable waves.