Need for lifeguards ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ( WIAT ) — Birmingham Parks and Recreation is no stranger to the ongoing lifeguard shortage.

“Throughout the country lifeguard shortages have been going on, so we’re definitely falling into that trap,” said Birmingham Parks and Recreations Superintendent David Primus.

Primus said as a result of this, Birmingham is planning to open 3 out of the 12 pools in Birmingham for Memorial Day Weekend, but they hope to open more before the summer.

“We’re looking at about 10 lifeguards per pool. So, if we can have those numbers where we want them, we’ll definitely be able to definitely accommodate the patrons in our community,” said Primus.

In Homewood, Homewood Parks and Recreation Superintendent Jakob Stephens says they are adjusting to help make up for the 8 lifeguard positions they’re still looking to fill.

“We’ve got to get through the holiday weekend because we’re dealing with senior trips and family vacations. So, even though we’ve got 72 people ready to work, we’ll be on a skeleton crew this weekend.” said Stephens.

Until those positions are filled, Stephens says they are depending on their current lifeguards to help out.

Vestavia Hills’ Aquatic Manager Robby Dellinger said they’ve reached their total goal of 80 lifeguards this summer season.

“I start in January sending out emails to previous lifeguards seeing if they’re going to comeback, what they’re plans are, whether they’re off in college, whatever their plans are. Then I start interviewing in February,” said Dellinger.

Dellinger said because the demand for lifeguards is so high, he is always looking to hire more lifeguards.

Homewood, Vestavia Hills and the city of Birmingham are currently looking to hire certified lifeguards.

If you are interested in becoming a lifeguard for the city of Birmingham contact Zahriya Miller at 205-203-2068 or email zahriya.miller@birminghamal.gov.

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