Critical Lifeguard Shortage Hits the Southern Hemisphere

AUDIO: Lifeguard shortage threatens to delay pool openings [Sydney]

ABC Radio Sydney: Harriet Tatham

With hundreds of vacancies for lifeguards and other staff, there are fears swimming pools in some regional communities won’t be able to open.

Full story: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-09-27/lifeguard-shortage-threatens-to-delay-pool-openings/102905230

Addressing the Lifeguard Shortage with Innovative Solutions here in the USA

The lifeguard shortage has led to some innovative solutions in communities across America. In some places, retired firefighters and other emergency responders have been recruited to work as lifeguards. This not only helps to address the labor shortage but also brings in experienced professionals who are well-equipped to handle emergencies.

Another solution is to provide more flexible scheduling for lifeguards. Many college and high school students work as lifeguards during the summer months, but they also have other commitments like internships, jobs, and summer school. By offering flexible scheduling options, communities can attract more candidates and retain experienced lifeguards.

Furthermore, some communities have taken a more proactive approach by launching awareness campaigns about the importance of lifeguards and the need for more people to take up the profession. These campaigns can include social media, billboards, and public service announcements that highlight the vital role of lifeguards in ensuring public safety and encourage people to consider it as a career.

Investing in Lifeguarding Programs

One way to address the shortage of lifeguards is to invest in programs that train and educate people on lifeguarding. This investment can be made by local governments, community organizations, and private institutions. The programs can range from basic lifeguard training to advance emergency response training. These programs can attract a more diverse pool of candidates, including retirees, veterans, and other professionals who may be looking for a career change.

In addition, investing in lifeguarding programs can help to create a pipeline of qualified lifeguards who can work in their communities for years to come. This can help to address the chronic shortage of lifeguards and ensure that public pools remain open and safe for the community. By investing in lifeguarding programs, communities can also provide job opportunities for their residents and help to boost the local economy.

Full story: https://americanlifeguardassociation.com/the-reasons-for-the-lifeguard-shortage-and-how-to-address-them/