Lifeguard Shortage May Cause Half of Public Pools To Close Early

The lifeguard shortage in America is poised to have a significant impact on summer activities, potentially leading to the early closure of over 50% of public pools across the country. As families flock to beaches, pools, and water parks to beat the summer heat, the lack of lifeguards poses a threat to the safety and enjoyment of these recreational spaces.

While the demand for lifeguards has consistently exceeded supply in recent years, the current shortage is reaching unprecedented levels. In New York City, for example, even with a 9% pay increase and sign-on bonus, the city is still left with only one-third of the required lifeguards. This pattern is mirrored across the country, with states and municipalities reporting their worst lifeguard shortages on record.

What a Lifeguard Shortage Means For Swimmers

According to the American Lifeguard Association, approximately half of the nation’s 309,000 public pools will be forced to either close their doors or reduce their operating hours due to the lack of lifeguards. This statistic highlights the gravity of the situation and the widespread impact on communities’ access to safe swimming facilities.

Colorado is one state taking proactive measures to address the shortage. The state has allocated a series of grants aimed at rectifying the problem. For example, the YMCA in Johnstown, Colorado, received just over $10,000 to invest in training and recertification programs for lifeguards and lifeguard instructors. The goal is to attract and train more staff, especially in smaller communities where the pool of potential lifeguards is limited. These resources will help ensure that there are enough trained professionals to teach and safeguard swimmers.

The reasons behind the lifeguard shortage are multifaceted. Low salaries, a lack of qualified applicants, and rigorous testing procedures contribute to the challenge of hiring lifeguards. The American Lifeguard Association highlights that being a lifeguard is more than just a summer job. Lifeguards play a vital role in informing people about potential dangers and ensuring their safety in and around water. This level of responsibility requires individuals with the right qualifications, skills, and commitment.

The consequences of the lifeguard shortage extend beyond mere inconvenience. They pose serious risks to public safety, particularly as the summer season brings a surge in water-related activities. Drowning incidents can occur within seconds, emphasizing the urgency of having trained and vigilant lifeguards on duty.

Why Lifeguards Are So Important

Lifeguards play a crucial role in preventing drownings and ensuring water safety. The following facts underscore the importance of lifeguards in safeguarding lives:

1. Drowning Statistics: Each year, approximately 4,000 individuals in the United States lose their lives due to drowning. Drowning ranks as a leading cause of unintentional injury death across all age groups, and it is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death among children aged 1-14.
2. Drowning Locations: The majority of drownings, ranging from 50% to 75%, occur in open water such as oceans, lakes, rivers, and ponds. However, swimming pools account for approximately 60% of drowning deaths among children.
3. Lifeguard Efficacy: Various organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recognize the effectiveness of lifeguards in preventing drownings and aquatic accidents. Communities and local government officials often seek evidence on the value of lifeguard services and their impact on public safety.
4. Preventability of Drownings: Most drownings are preventable through multiple strategies, and the presence of lifeguards is one effective approach. By stationing lifeguards at public swimming areas and encouraging people to swim in those protected zones, the risk of drowning can be significantly reduced.
5. Lifeguard Protection: Estimates suggest that the chance of drowning at a beach protected by lifeguards can be as low as one in 18 million. This statistic highlights the significant impact that trained and professional lifeguards have on drowning prevention in the United States.
6. Water Watching & Supervision: Lifeguards provide critical water watching and supervision, as many drowning victims do not exhibit obvious signs of distress. Drowning often occurs quietly and quickly, with individuals unable to call out or signal for help. Children and adults can submerge in as little as 20-60 seconds. Lifeguards play a vital role in detecting these silent emergencies and intervening promptly.
7. Deterrence of Risky Behaviors: The presence of lifeguards acts as a deterrent to behaviors that can put swimmers at risk of drowning. Just as increased police presence can deter crime, lifeguards discourage activities like horseplay or venturing into rough or deep water, thereby enhancing overall water safety.

To address this issue, concerted efforts are needed at various levels. Increasing salaries, offering attractive benefits, and providing opportunities for ongoing training and career advancement can help attract and retain lifeguards. Additionally, promoting lifeguard certification programs, raising awareness about the importance of water safety, and investing in community resources can contribute to a more sustainable lifeguard workforce.

As communities strive to enjoy the pleasures of water recreation, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of individuals. By recognizing the significance of lifeguards and taking active steps to address the shortage, we can ensure that swimming pools and other water facilities remain accessible and enjoyable for everyone during the summer months.