The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is offering training courses that teach the skills needed to become a certified lifeguard. Participants that successfully complete the class and a certification test over the next few months will be eligible to work as lifeguards during the summer 2009 swim season, earning $11.03 an hour.

Those interested can find more information and sign up for classes online by visiting www.phoenix.gov/parks . Once on the Parks page, the courses are listed in the Aquatics link of the Classes and Programs section. Participants can choose from October, November, or December classes as well as weekday and weekend courses.

Participants must be 15 years old by the last day of class. Those that successfully complete the class will earn a three-year Lifeguard certification and be eligible to apply for positions at city pools. The class costs $75.

For more information, call the Aquatics Section at 602-262-6541.