Lifeguard shortage impacting pools in New Jersey this summer
A lifeguard shortage is leading a pool in Warrenbrook to temporarily close its doors.
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As the weather gets warmer, families tend to enjoy spending time at the pool to cool off. But if there are not enough lifeguards, then unfortunately there’s no pool.
A lifeguard shortage is forcing a pool in Warrenbrook to temporarily close its doors. It’s an issue that’s been impacting pools across New Jersey as many wonder if they’ll be able to open for the summer.
Warrenbrook is home to roughly 400 members every summer. The pool needs at least eight lifeguards on duty to be able to open. Lifeguards are also needed at several state parks in New Jersey.
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Staff at the pool say lifeguarding hasn't been the same coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The job of lifeguarding has really lost its luster. It’s not the prestigious job that it used to be,” Geoff Soriano said.
The Somerset County Park Commission says they understand these shortages are a nationwide issue. To get ahead of the shortages, the park commission is offering competitive pay at $16.50 an hour. They’re also helping applicants become certified lifeguards by offering a free American Red Cross Lifeguarding course.
“This pool has been up and running for years. And if we can’t get it moving this year, it’s going to be a little bit disappointing and a shot to our pride,” Soriano said.
He continued, “I’m looking at the parents now. Get your kids outside, get them employed, learn about responsibility. You’re out in the sunshine, beautiful day. I mean what can be better than that as a 15, 16-year-old kid.”
The pool recently made major repairs costing $250 million. They hope to garner enough attention to open their doors soon.
For more information or to apply to the Warrenbrook pool, click here.
