Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif. -- A 300-meter swim using three different strokes followed by a surface dive to retrieve a 10-pound object can be a challenging task, but for the students of the American Red Cross lifeguarding class, these are pre-requisites.
Marine Corps Community Services Miramar began an American Red Cross lifeguarding class at the 50-meter pool here Feb. 19.
“In order to succeed in this course, the participants must be physically and mentally prepared,” said Ashley A. Ortego, an MCCS aquatic supervisor and class instructor.
The course consists of four classes and is open to all members of the community over the age of 15.
The students must pass three written exams with an average of 85 percent and perform Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation and other live saving techniques during simulated emergency scenarios, said Ortego.
“The students learn how to apply first aid to victims who have drowned or received head and neck injuries, heat stroke along with other injuries, and are expected to apply these techniques on their last day when they are tested,” said Ortego. “They are tested on everything that they learn.”
A swimming background is necessary to succeed in the class, explained Ortego.
“I was looking for work and applying for jobs on base when I signed up for the class,” said Kirk McGinty, a student of the class. “I have always been a good swimmer.”
Students must attend and pass all four classes to be issued a certification.
“The certification is universal and can be used almost anywhere,” said Kirra N. Heathman, a lifeguard and swim instructor with MCCS.
Having a certification is a great opportunity for active duty members to find work and to add to their life saving skills, explained Ortego.
The classes run Feb. 14 through March 28 and are open to active duty military and civilians. To register, call the 50-meter pool at 858-577-4137.
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