Mother Nature’s wrath of frigid weather has filled the heads of beach lovers with images of sandy beaches and city pools as they sit idly by in anticipation of summer.

City officials anticipating the arrival of summer are currently accepting applications from qualified candidates for the NYC National Lifeguard Training Program.

Acceptance to the program is a first step in obtaining a public service job that pays well and allows workers to enjoy the sun and surf while saving lives and staying in shape.

The city Department of Parks and Recreation (DOP) is currently accepting applications from candidates who have an opportunity to play a critical role in the operation of New York City’s seven public beaches and 54 outdoor pools.

To qualify for the training program candidates must:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Have 20/30 eyesight in one eye and 20/40 in the other
• Be able to swim 50 yards in 35 seconds with proper form

Qualified candidates will enter the program consisting of training in swimming and rescue techniques along with first aid and CPR. Candidates who successfully complete the free training program and land a job as a city lifeguard will be paid for time spent in training.

Visit www.nyc.gov/parks for more information and a complete list of test sites, or e-mail lifeguard@parks.nyc.gov for additional information or to apply for the training program.