LEWISTON – The YWCA certified more than 240 people to become American Red Cross lifeguards and water safety instructors this summer.

Men and women representing eight countries, including France, England, Australia, Austria, Scotland, New Zealand, Poland and the United States, were involved in the program.

Lifeguards leaving the YWCA certification program are qualified, strong swimmers, trained and certified in water rescue, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, first aid and the use of automated external defibrillators. Water safety instructors in the program were trained to teach swim lessons in a variety of settings.

For more than 125 years, the YWCA of Central Maine has offered programs and services to improve the lives of women, teens, children and families of all faiths and backgrounds. Programming includes intervention services, childcare, fitness and aquatics programs and social activities for women.

To contact the YWCA of Central Maine, call: 795-4050 or visit www.YWCAMaine.org.