IN West County Summer 2019 | Page 12

LIFEGUARDING on Presque Isle Presque Isle lifeguards prepare for another great season. BY BERNADETTE WILSON 10 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE ❘ M ore than 4 million visitors visit Presque Isle each year, and from Memorial Day to Labor Day, one of their favorite activities is spending time at the park’s beaches and swimming in Lake Erie. Although swimming is pure fun for park visitors, keeping swimmers safe is the primary objective for Presque Isle lifeguards—and it takes special people to meet the challenge. completing web-based applications, an interview process and then physical and lifeguarding assessments by North and the other lifeguard managers, Steve Dunsmore and John Dahlstrand. Dunsmore says he and his team realize that for candidates applying for their first job, the application and orientation process can be a little overwhelming. “We’re here to help,” he adds. The Search for Outstanding Individuals “We have high standards,” says lifeguard manager Bob North. “These are open- water lifeguarding positions, and there’s inherent potential for a more physical rescue that requires speed, strength and endurance. We won’t put a guard out there unless they’re ready to do the job.” The process of filling open lifeguard positions begins with candidates What Every PI Lifeguard Needs to Know Candidates with the necessary skills and ability go through a two-week orientation that covers every aspect of the job. “Our philosophy here at Presque Isle is prevention,” says Dunsmore. “We give guards training for all the skills they need to prevent accidents or injury from happening.” For example, when conditions require caution, the guards icmags.com