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For Release: Wednesday, December 19, 2007

DEC Lifeguard Tests Begin January 6

People interested in employment as lifeguards at New York State Department of Environmental Conservation facilities next summer will be given free lifeguard tests in the Adirondack and Catskill regions starting Jan. 6, Commissioner Pete Grannis announced today.

"There are many great employment opportunities available in DEC campgrounds and facilities across the state," said Grannis. "The tests for qualified candidates will be offered free of charge again this year to give all those interested an opportunity to work as a lifeguard at one of these sites this summer."

Candidates must pass the examination to be considered for employment. The test is open to ages 16 and older and candidate must have 20/40 uncorrected vision or better in each eye. It includes an in-water demonstration of lifesaving skills and techniques and performance of the Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) single rescuer procedure. Candidates will be evaluated on a pass or fail basis.

At the time of employment, all DEC lifeguards must:

• be at least 16 years of age;
• possess a valid American Red Cross (or equivalent) certification in lifeguarding, and Basic Life Support for the Professional Rescuer(BLS);
• have successfully completed the New York State DEC lifeguard exam
• have attended one of the DEC lifeguard orientations;· have completed a personal interview with DEC, and
• submit a current certification of the applicant's physical ability to perform lifeguard duties.

The exam may be taken at any DEC testing location convenient to the applicant and the results will be forwarded to the preferred work location. To pre-register for an exam, or for further information about the review/challenge course, contact 518-457-2500 ext. #1, e-mail to lfgdinfo@gw.dec.state.ny.us , or visit our website at http://www.dec-campgrounds.com/ .

The schedule for lifeguard testing is attached.

PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED - (518) 457-2500 EXT. #1
Candidates must arrive at the specified start time. Exams will begin promptly and on time. Late arrivals will not be accepted.

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