Lifeguarding on the Beach, Statewide Shortage of Guards, and Summer Vacation Destinations in Michigan

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The phrase of the day was
"Kids, feet first down the slide".
:)

 Lifeguards play a vital role in protecting people from drowning, yet many communities are facing a shortage of qualified lifeguards. One of the reasons I will work a few hours each week, and occasionally fill in, is because of the significant need for trained personnel.

Becoming a lifeguard is not easy. The training is demanding, and not everyone successfully completes it. In many communities, the required training is unpaid because budgets are limited. Lifeguards must meet physical fitness standards, learn emergency medical skills, and be prepared to respond quickly in stressful situations.

The job itself can also be challenging. During my first outdoor shift, the day began warm and pleasant, but by the afternoon the weather had become cooler and windier. As the conditions changed, many beachgoers packed up and left. Throughout the shift, however, the responsibility remained the same: continuously scanning the water, watching for signs of distress, and remaining vigilant. Lifeguarding requires constant attention and dedication.

That experience gave me an even greater appreciation for the work lifeguards do. Not every community has the financial resources to support beach safety programs, yet providing lifeguards helps protect both residents and visitors. Safe, well-maintained beaches also make communities more attractive destinations for tourism. That also means more revenue for businesses and taxes contributing to a cycle 

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(As a side thought one could advertise they have lifeguards in their communities since most beaches don't have them. If you were a family and all other things equal could be a tipping point. Including beaches in summer marketing strategies relates to another type of demographic. The demographic that brings their families and if they have a good time move there, start a business, buy a house, etc. They may also vacation there year after year which is also great.)

Escanaba and Gladstone continue to grow as popular tourist destinations in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Both communities offer beautiful public beaches located next to their marinas. Gladstone features concession stands and a well-maintained park, while Escanaba also offers a scenic waterfront park and occasionally hosts concession vendors. Ice cream trucks come often. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, walking, and many other recreational activities, making the beaches just one part of a broader outdoor experience.

One of the most rewarding moments during my first shift came when a couple of children approached and asked why I liked being a lifeguard. I told them that I enjoy watching kids and families have fun while knowing they are doing so in a safe environment. As my shift ended and another lifeguard relieved me, I encouraged the children to ask her the same question so they could hear another perspective. It was a reminder that even young children are curious about the people who watch over them and why they choose to serve.

Overall, my first experience as a lifeguard was very positive. It reinforced the importance of the profession and the valuable role lifeguards play in keeping our beaches safe for everyone.

Tackling the Lifeguard Shortage Crisis

• Lifeguards play a critical role in preventing drownings and enforcing water safety by monitoring swimmers, responding to emergencies, and promoting safe behavior at pools, beaches, and water parks.
• The nationwide lifeguard shortage has been intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced certification opportunities, low wages, seasonal employment, and the demanding nature of the job, causing many aquatic facilities to reduce hours or temporarily close.
• Staffing shortages increase safety risks by reducing surveillance coverage and delaying emergency response times, potentially leading to more preventable water-related accidents.
• The article recommends expanding access to lifeguard training, offering competitive pay and benefits, increasing public awareness of lifeguarding careers, and providing mentorship and ongoing professional development to improve recruitment and retention.
• Communities, schools, local governments, and aquatic facilities can help address the shortage by supporting certification programs, developing local recruitment pipelines, and creating more flexible training opportunities for future lifeguards.

American Lifeguard Association. (n.d.). Tackling the lifeguard shortage crisis. https://americanlifeguardassociation.com/tackling-the-lifeguard-shortage-crisis/