Lifeguard age limit reduced at NY summer camps

The lifeguards at camp could soon be getting younger.

Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the new legislation on Monday. It lowers the minimum age of lifeguards at children’s camps.

Now lifeguards for children’s camps must be at least 17 years old.

However, if there is a camp aquatic director, the lifeguards can be at least 15 years old.

Any lifeguards required for wilderness swimming must be at least 18 years old.

Up to 50% of the required number of lifeguards on duty may be 15 years old with the proper supervision. These camps include overnight, summer day and travelling summer camps.