The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness today announced it is extending Lifeguard and Food Manager certifications due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our inspectors and environmental staff members have been busy following up on COVID-19-related complaints, and with social distancing protocols in place, it has not been possible for lifeguards or food mangers to get recertified. Therefore, we are granting extensions,” said Dr. Sarah Moyer, director of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness and the city’s chief health strategist.
Lifeguard certifications are extended without charge until October 1, 2020. If you are a Lifeguard I, II or a Qualified Pool Attendant and your certification expires between March 1 and July 15, 2020, your certification has been extended and now won’t expire until October 1, 2020.
This extension only applies to individuals who are up to date with all other requirements such as Lifeguarding, CPR and First Aid. Many of the organizations that provide these certifications are also offering free extensions. Please contact them to check.
Those who are certified do not need to schedule an appointment with the Department of Public Health and Wellness to be tested for recertification and can work as a lifeguard when pools open later this month. Individuals who have not been certified before can call the Department of Public Health and Wellness to schedule an appointment for the necessary tests to obtain certification. To make an appointment, call 574-6650.
The Department of Public Health and Wellness is also extending all Food Service Manager certifications without charge. Food Service Manager certifications that expire March 1 through June 29, 2020 are now extended to August 31, 2020. In-person classes will resume on June 29. All Louisville restaurants are required to have a certified Food Service Manager on duty during business hours.
