VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — While we are still in the middle of winter, Volusia County Beach Safety is already trying to fill their many summer lifeguard positions in an effort to keep beachgoers safe.

Beach Safety is hoping to hire 80 lifeguards ahead of the summer season.

Staff members said last year was one of their busiest summers ever, with hoards of people flocking to the beach despite Beach Safety being short on lifeguards.

Captain A.J. Miller said this summer they’d like to have as many manned lifeguard towers out as possible and station lifeguards as close as 300 feet apart in busy areas. Miller shared that he has been a lifeguard for decades and hopes many consider applying for this rewarding job.

“There is nothing better than going on a big rescue knowing that if you wouldn’t be there that person would not make it and getting them home safely to their friends, family and loved ones, said Captain A.J. Miller, watch commander for Volusia County Beach Safety.

Applicants must be at least 16 on or before June 1 and be able to swim 500 meters freestyle in under 10 minutes, swim 50 yards freestyle in under 30 seconds and run a half-mile in under 3 minutes and 15 seconds. Candidates considered for hiring will undergo a background check, physical and drug screening.

Starting pay is $13.24 dollars an hour with a $500 incentive for those who will work certain weekends. 

Upcoming tryouts are mandatory for those interested in a position. Swim tryouts are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. February 19 and March 5 at the Ormond Beach YMCA.

Tryouts are also 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. February 26 and March 12 at the Port Orange YMCA.

You must attend one of these tryouts to be considered for the job. Candidates also have to participate in Volusia County Beach Safety's lifeguard recruit class and a 40-hour first responder class and CPR course or provide proof of equivalence.

For more information on hhow to apply, click here or call 386-239-6414.