Junior Lifeguard Tryouts Saturday

Tryouts for the popular Huntington State Beach junior lifeguard program will be Saturday from 9 a.m to noon at the Edison High School pool.

Youngsters 9 to 17 years old take part in the six-week program, which teaches basic lifeguard skills and ocean safety. Last summer, 225 youngsters were chosen for the nonprofit program, operated through the state Department of Parks and Recreation.

Those interested in the program must be able to swim 100 yards in two minutes or less, tread water for five minutes and swim underwater for 10 yards, said Thomas A. Potwora, chief instructor.

“If they don’t meet minimum requirements, it’s too much of a safety hazard,” Potwora said.

The program, which will run from June 24 through Aug. 6, will also feature guest speakers such as a Navy SEAL, professional surfers, and fire and police personnel. Also planned are trips to the Bolsa Chica wetlands and Crystal Cove State Park.

The cost is $290 for the first child in a family and $250 for each additional child.

Tryouts will also be May 11 at Edison High School, 21400 Magnolia Ave.; and June 8, 15 and 22 at Fountain Valley High School, 17816 Bushard St.

Information: (714) 536-4877.