As Walter Chihara explained in a recent commentary, students who complete the Junior Lifeguard Program receive training that can help them save lives.

The county Department of Fire & Public Safety Ocean Safety Bureau is now gearing up for the 2023 Junior Lifeguard Program that starts in June.

In the North, South and West districts, Guard Start for ages 8-12 only is set for June 13-16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The popular program for students ages 13-17 will be held in four sessions: Session I — June 19-23; Session II — June 26-30; Session III — July 10-14; and Session IV — July 24-28.

Programs are also slated in Hana and Molokai from June 5-8, and Lanai from June 13-16, both from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Proof of age is required, and there is a limit of 12 participants per session.

Participants who are not part of a swim team must perform and pass a swim assessment. The assessment is 300 yards nonstop within 11 minutes for ages 13-17 and 100 yards nonstop for ages 8-12 (no time limit).

The swim assessment will take place on Saturday, May 20, at your chosen district: North – Sakamoto Swimming Pool; South – Kihei Aquatics Center; West – Lahaina Aquatics Center; Molokai – Cooke Memorial Pool; and Lanai – to be determined. Remember that A PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN MUST BE PRESENT during your swimming test.

Registration forms, including the Liability Waiver, can be found on the County of Maui website at www.mauicounty.gov/1565/Ocean-Junior-Lifeguard-Program.

Registration closes when all spots are filled, so sign up right away.

The newly trained keiki will compete in the Maui Junior Lifeguard Championships on July 28.

Mahalo to the Junior Lifeguard instructors: North – Chris Saito; South – Keoki Pfaeltzer; West – Bryce Jacinto; Hana – Maluhia Scott; Molokai – Harold Teshima and Chris Saito; and Lanai – Harold Teshima.

For more information, e-mail Jr.Lifeguard@co.maui.hi.us or call Zach Edlao at (808) 757-4318.