The City of Prince Albert partners with Métis Nation to provide free lifeguard training

Prince Albert, SK – The City of Prince Albert has partnered with Métis Nation – Western Region 2 to provide free lifesaving and lifeguard training to local Indigenous and Métis youth.

“Prince Albert has a demographic of over 40% Indigenous people. The City of Prince Albert and Métis Nation – Western Region 2 believe that the aquatics team should reflect this rich Indigenous heritage of Prince Albert,” says Kadin Henry, lifeguard. “By removing economic barriers Métis Nation - Western Region 2 and the City of Prince Alberts goal is for the lifeguards on the pool deck to reflect the population of our community.”

Sherry McLennan, President of Métis Nation – Western Region 2 said, “Our goal for this program is to close the gap that has prevented many Indigenous people from participating in the career of lifeguarding. Not only will it help close this gap but also make Western Region 2 safer for everyone – participants will carry this training with them everywhere they go.”

All lifesaving and lifeguard training offered at the FJD Pool will be through the Lifesaving Society. Eligible participants can participate in Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, and National Lifeguard courses. Once completed training, candidates will be qualified to work as lifeguards anywhere in Canada – or locally at the new indoor Aquatic and Arenas Recreation Centre opening in 2025.

Registration for lifesaving and lifeguard courses at the Frank J. Dunn Swimming Pool is now open. Eligible participants will have their registration fees waived.

Eligibility

• Aged 15+
• Identify as First Nation, Inuit, or Métis (status/non-status)
• Complete in-water screening or have completed swimming lessons
• Reside in Western Region 2

Registration Process

1. Contact the FJD Pool to complete in-water screening.
2. Register for courses by calling the FJD Pool office.

Learn about being a lifeguard with the City of Prince Albert on our new website!  https://www.citypa.ca/en/parks-recreation-and-culture/our-lifeguard-team.aspx

For more information, please contact:

Curtis Olsen                                                                                                           
Sport & Recreation Manager                                                                              
306-953-4818                                                                                                               
colsen@citypa.com                                                                                                

Sherry McLennan
Métis Nation – Western Region
306-930-0899
sherrymclennan@mns.work