Brevard County Ocean Rescue Gears Up for Summer with Lifeguard Tryouts at Gleason Park

Lifeguard tryouts will be held Monday, February 16, at 1 p.m. at Gleason Park

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – As temperatures begin to climb and beach crowds grow, Brevard County Ocean Rescue is ramping up preparations for what’s expected to be another hot, high-traffic summer along the Space Coast.

To meet seasonal demand and keep residents and visitors safe, the agency is inviting prospective lifeguards to test their skills at an upcoming tryout.

Lifeguard tryouts will be held Monday, February 16, at 1 p.m. at Gleason Park, giving motivated candidates an early opportunity to earn a spot in the county’s lifeguard ranks. The event is open to individuals who are committed to public safety and physically prepared for the rigors of ocean rescue work.

Participants must be at least 16 years old by the first day of the Lifeguard Academy, scheduled for late May or early June. No prior lifeguarding experience is required—Brevard County Ocean Rescue provides comprehensive training for those who successfully pass the tryouts and are selected for the academy.

The tryout consists of three timed physical challenges designed to reflect the real-world demands of ocean rescue operations:

■ 500-meter swim completed in 10 minutes or less
■ 1-mile run completed in 10 minutes or less
■ 30 push-ups

These requirements test endurance, speed, and upper-body strength—key attributes for lifeguards who must respond quickly to emergencies in challenging ocean conditions.

Brevard County Ocean Rescue plays a critical role in protecting miles of Atlantic coastline and responding to rip current rescues, medical emergencies, and other water-related incidents throughout the year, with peak activity during the summer months. Lifeguards are often the first line of defense against drowning and ensure beach safety.

Officials encourage anyone who thinks they have what it takes to serve their community, work as part of a team, and thrive in a fast-paced outdoor environment to attend the tryouts.

For those ready to step up, the path to becoming a Brevard County ocean lifeguard begins at Gleason Park on February 16—where commitment, conditioning, and a passion for public safety will be put to the test.

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