PROVIDENCE - The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announced today it is administering Surf and Non-Surf Lifeguard Certification tests beginning this week to certify lifeguards for the year 2017; lifeguard positions at all beaches in Rhode Island require certification and special training in first aid, CPR, and lifeguard training.

Surf tests for lifeguards working at all types of swimming facilities will be given from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, August 1 through Friday, August 5 at Scarborough State Beach in Narragansett. Non-surf tests for lifeguards working at freshwater/bayside beaches and pools will be given from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, August 9 through Friday, August 12 at the Prosser Grove Picnic Area at Burlingame State Park in Charlestown. There is a $10.00 fee for the 2017 state certification card, which must be paid prior to the card being issued.

In order to qualify for testing, all candidates must have successfully completed courses and hold valid cards in lifeguard training, first aid, and CPR that includes infant, child, and adult. They must be at least 16 years of age and must present a photo I.D. with verification of date of birth. Any candidate under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to sign the waiver/application form.

Any candidate who passes one of these tests will be certified through September 30, 2017. Lifeguards who received a conditional 2016 surf or non-surf certification must take and pass one of these tests.

In case of inclement weather, contact the facility administering the test for cancellation information: Burlingame State Park at 322-8910 and Scarborough at 789-2324.

Additional information about lifeguard certification is available on DEM's website. Follow DEM on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) or Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM for timely updates.