​​​​BUFFALO, N.Y. — ​The city of Buffalo is getting a head start on finding lifeguards for this summer.

The Police Athletic League and the Red Cross are offering Certified Lifeguard Training for young people in Buffalo ages 16 to 21.

The sessions are during winter break from February 20 - 24 at the Cazenovia Pool on Abbott Road. 

"We need our young people to step up in a big way after a lifeguard shortage last summer kept us from opening our city pools," Mayor Byron Brown said. "Our current team of lifeguards come from all walks of life but have one thing in common, a love for our city and a love for our children who deserve a safe and fun summer. I ask our youth to consider this great opportunity and join Buffalo’s awesome team of lifeguards. The position pays well and will help further improve the quality of life in neighborhoods citywide."

Pay for city lifeguards is $20 an hour.

You can register for the class on the city’s website.