Tuesday, May 21, 2019

Lifeguard testing in Charlestown tomorrow and June 27

Lifeguard Certification Tests Start May 22-23
Candidates can select a test time through new online registration program

Animated GIFThe Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announced it is administering conditional Non-Surf and Surf Lifeguard Certification tests beginning this week. 

Lifeguard positions at all beaches in Rhode Island require certification and special training in first aid, CPR, and lifeguard training.

The schedule of testing is as follows:

May 22, June 12, and June 27 | 9 AM – 2 PM Prosser Grove Picnic Area, Burlingame State Park, Charlestown Non-surf tests for lifeguards working at freshwater/bayside beaches

May 23 and June 13 | 9 AM – 2 PM Scarborough State Beach, Narragansett Surf tests for lifeguards working at all types of swimming facilities


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 (cash or check only) for the state certification card, which must be paid prior to the card being issued.

Individuals who plan to take the conditional lifeguard tests can register in advance and select a test time; although not required, registration is encouraged and will cut down on wait times on testing days. 

Candidates must enter all required information and upload a copy of their training certificates (lifeguard training, CPR, first aid) when registering. After submitting their information, they will receive an email with a link to schedule the time they would like to take their test; reserved times are on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Candidates who choose not to register will be placed into the first available testing slot. To register, visit http://www.riparks.com/LifeguardCertification.html. For questions, contact Tom Rosa at tom.rosa@dem.ri.gov or at 401-667-6206.

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

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

Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.

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