The Grand Forks Aquatic Centre is urging local seniors to answer its call for new lifeguards.
They say they want to keep the community safe and ensure the pool is adequately staffed all year round and are hoping that appealing to an older demographic can help counter the national lifeguard shortage.
It’s literally all hands on deck, as older adults are being asked to dive in to help and make up for a lack of younger applicants. They’re appealing to those who want to stay active and supplement their income to return to lifeguarding or to give it a try, especially anyone who used to be a lifeguard and want to recertify. But they are also encouraging anyone who is willing to go through the certification process for the first time.
“When we saw what the Canada Games Aquatic Centre in St. John’s was doing, actively recruiting and certifying an older demographic as lifeguards and swim instructors, we knew the Greywatch idea was a keeper,” says Paul Keys, manager of facilities and recreation at RDKB’s Grand Forks and District Recreation. “It would be great to see a range of ages and life experiences, poolside, that are as diverse as those of our patrons.”
“We’re surrounded by strong swimmers and water enthusiasts who have time on their hands, want to keep active and to give something back to their community too, all while getting paid and boosting their social lives,” says recreation supervisor Melina Van Hoogevest. “Age is just a number, so if you’re more Greywatch than Baywatch, don’t be put off. Together, we can future-proof our pool and keep our community safe.”
“Lifeguarding is really rewarding, regardless of age, and we provide a robust training program for new recruits,” says aquatic coordinator Megan Tiller. “We’re hoping to inspire students and to also plant the seed among those who haven’t considered lifeguarding, to jump right in and join our lifesaving team.”
Anyone who wants to find out more about lifeguarding positions and lifeguarding certification at Grand Forks Aquatic Centre, should contact Tiller: [email protected].