Sedona AZ (March 7, 2019) – The Sedona Parks and Recreation Department needs lifeguards.
Department staff members have been working to increase hours at the community pool to meet demand. Last year the department offered a spring season with limited hours, three days a week, the city’s earliest opening. Our recreation and aquatics supervisor has set a goal this season to open April 1 and expand the offering to five days a week for both swimming and aqua fitness classes.
But there’s a problem: not enough lifeguards to staff the facility.
The lifeguard position is historically held by high school and college students, but today’s students are not as likely to become lifeguards as in years past. Extracurricular commitments and internships now consume the students’ time. As the public pushes for more pool hours, demand for lifeguards increases just as supply is depleting.
“There is a lifeguard shortage all community pools are facing nationwide, this isn’t just a local issue,” says aquatics supervisor Dawn Norman. “The aquatics industry is having to think outside the box and we are hoping to recruit from older demographics — baby boomers, seniors, retired/semi-retired individuals. Lifeguarding isn’t just for youth anymore.”
Benefits of the position position include flexible hours, supplemental income, and staying active. The biggest bonus: lifeguards swim for free.
The Parks and Recreation Department is now accepting applications for lifeguards and offering lifeguard certification courses. Candidates can apply for the job before taking the course and receiving their certification. Visit sedonaaz.gov/jobs for details.
Lifeguard courses are blended-learning and require participants to complete approximately eight hours of online training prior to the first day of class. Course dates are: Course #1: March 15 and 16, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., two-day class; Course #2: March 18 to 22, 4-7 p.m., five-day class; Course #3: May 6 to 10, 4-7 p.m., five-day class; and Course #4: May 18 and 19, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., two- day class. Additional course dates may be offered based on interest.
The cost for all classes is $95 per participant and advance registration is required. Participants must register at least seven days prior to the start date of the course.
“This is a great opportunity to support your community pool and become a first-time lifeguard,” says Norman. “Getting certified and lifeguarding will give you extra income and exercise while you enjoy the beautiful outdoors and views here in Sedona. Our pool offers one of the best views in the city.”
The Sedona Community Pool is located at 570 Posse Ground Rd. adjacent to West Sedona School.
