EMERALD ISLE, N.C. — Learning how to save lives can never start too early.
Pools and beaches across the state continue to struggle under a lifeguard shortage, but at Emerald Isle they are teaching the next generation the basics of beach safety at a junior lifeguard camp.
The kids are learning CPR, first aid, beach flag safety, marine life and rescue techniques.
Mackenzie McClarney has been a lifeguard for six summers in a row.
“Junior guards is probably the thing that I look forward to the most,” McClarney said. “Because the kids have so much energy, and they're so eager to learn.”
Although she grew up in the landlocked state of Indiana, McClarney loves the ocean. She says teaching kids beach safety at a young age is essential.
“I think exposure is really important because a lot of people are afraid of the ocean,” McClarney said. “And the ocean is obviously a great thing. And it's really exciting to see how excited the kids are about it. So starting them at a young age and finding their comfort level so then they can build upon it.”
The goal is to inspire the kids to be lifeguards when they grow up. So far, it seems to be working.
Ocean rescue coordinator William Matthias says his hope is that once kids go through the camp, they will return as official lifeguards when they turn 18. He says they expanded their lifeguard program this year, but they are still experiencing a shortage just like many organizations around the state.
“Whether they want to be a lifeguard one day hopefully here in Emerald Isle or just as they get older continue coming to the beach,” McClarney said. “They can have that knowledge themselves and then also share it with others.”
Junior lifeguard camps finished up in July, but Matthias encourages anyone who's interested to look for next year's signup in April.