MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- The American Red Cross and Semper Fit hosted a lifeguard certification class for service members and civilians at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, April 12 – 17, 2014.
During the course, the Marines learned cardiopulmonary resuscitation, how to use automated external defibrillators, basic first aid and lifeguarding for professional rescuers.
“The hardest part of the course is putting everything together,” said Staff Sgt. Patrick McKelvey a cyber systems chief with Marine Wing Communication Squadron 28.
McKelvey took the course to better himself and the community.
“You can never be too well trained,” said McKelvey. “This course is very detailed and you learn everything you need to possibly save a life.”
The classes, which were open to service members and civilians age 15 or older, are designed to inform students of the responsibilities of lifeguards and some life saving skills required for all lifeguards, according to Terri Fisher, the lead instructor for the classes.
“As instructors it is our job to teach this class properly, with all the correct techniques needed to rescue someone and possibly save a life,” said Fisher. “The reason we are hosting the classes on the air station is that there are many pools in need of lifeguards for these upcoming months.”
Fisher, who has years of experience teaching lifeguards, believes lifeguard training can be applied away from the pool, as well.
“These classes also build life skills that can be extremely valuable throughout life.” The classes build teamwork, confidence, and a satisfaction that you are able to protect someone else’s life.
For more information about possible future lifeguard classes, call (252) 466-2510.