City of Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
We encourage Junior Lifeguards to be present each day of the program in order to maximize their skills and program growth.
This is especially important during the first two weeks of the program as this is a key time for foundational safety lessons as well as for JGs to get to know their instructor and groupmates.
2026 Attendance Requirement (Updated 09-09-25):
In the first two weeks of the program, Junior Lifeguards must attend at least THREE program days during their normal session to remain enrolled in the program. This requirement applies to both new and returning JG families.
If your child is not able to meet this requirement, they will be required to attend a 2.5-hour safety session. The 2026 safety day will take place on Friday, June 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Junior Lifeguards who are required to attend the safety day as a result of attendance, must begin regular program attendance the Monday following the safety day and must attend at least three days of that week. (Independence Day falls on a Saturday in 2026, there will be four regular JG Program days during week three.)
Families who will not be able to complete one of these two options should contact us at NewportJG@nbfd.net prior to processing payment for the program.
In addition to the above requirements, excessive absences may impact their ability to participate in certain activities due to safety.
Participation, Health and Safety Policy
If a Junior Lifeguard is unable to fully participate in program activities due to illness, injury (whether sustained within or outside the program), or any other medical condition, they must remain at home. This policy is in place to protect the health and safety of all participants and staff, and to ensure that JGs are able to engage in required activities in and out of the water.
If a JG arrives at the program while exhibiting signs of illness, injury, or is otherwise deemed unfit to participate for the day by program staff; their parent or legal guardian will be contacted and required to pick them up immediately.
The NBJG Program reserves the right to make such determinations in accordance with its duty of care and in alignment with applicable health and safety guidelines. Failure to comply with this policy may result in temporary suspension or dismissal from program and its activities to ensure the well-being of all involved.