Both sessions of the Ventura County Junior Lifeguard Program will be canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns.

The Junior Lifeguard Program, sponsored by the Ventura County Harbor Department, offers youth 8 to 15 years of age the opportunity to receive instruction in lifeguard rescue techniques, emergency medical first-aid, ocean sports activity, physical conditioning, marine ecology, and public service. The program typically runs in July and early August.

“Canceling the Jr. Lifeguard Program was not an easy decision, but the safety of our community is our top priority,” said Harbormaster Gary Hirtensteiner. “We look forward to offering this valuable program in the summer of 2021.”

Editor’s Note: this story was published on May 6, 2020.