City efforts have been made to ensure the pool can open this summer, including hiring a handful of lifeguards. Despite increasing the pay to $22 per hour, no one has applied for the job. The opportunity to sign up for lifeguard certification class ends today.

During the last month the plans for the pool have seen a number of changes. At first it appeared the pandemic would force it to remain closed. However, through actions by a number of citizens along with the city council, the mayor, and city staff the difficulties were overcome to allow the pool to open. 

There is just one more hurdle that could prevent the pool from opening: Staffing. No one has applied to be a lifeguard or COVID Monitor. To open the city needs about 15 lifeguards. During a previous city council meeting it was agreed to increase the pay to $22 per hour which is guaranteed even if the pool can’t open as a result of the pandemic. As of the writing of this article, no one has applied for the job.

Lifeguards must be at least 16 years old and have a current Red Cross lifeguard certification. The last day to sign up with the class is today(June 8th, 2021). The cost for the class is $125. Go to: DPGazette.com/redcrossclass

COURSE PREREQUISITES:

• Swim 300 yards’ front crawl, back crawl, or a combination of both continuously demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing. Swimming on back or side is not allowed. Goggles may be used.
• Tread water for 2 minutes, using only legs with hands placed under the armpits.
• Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds: Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. Goggles are not allowed. Surface dive to a depth of 7-10 feet and retrieve a 10-pound object. Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point with both hands holding the object and keeping the face at or near the surface of the water. Exit the water without using steps.

The COVID 19 Monitors would be responsible for helping meet requirements to open the pool during the pandemic. Recording logs regarding pool patrons and cleaning would be  primary objectives.

The job application is available at: DPGazette.com/lifeguardapp

Source:
City of Deer Park Website Job Posting DPGazette.com/lifeguardjob Accessed June 8th, 2021