Swimmers have a new Lake Whatcom dock. But this might limit the fun this summer
A lifeguard shortage this summer threatens swimming hours at Bloedel Donovan Park, a popular warm-weather location on Lake Whatcom.
Just weeks before the last day of classes at Whatcom County schools, Bellingham needs more people to watch swimmers, and be ready for an emergency at the lake, which draws hundreds of visitors daily in summer to enjoy its new open-water swim platform.
“I’ve been recruiting like crazy wherever I go. We’re really looking for more folks,” said Nicole Oliver, director of the Parks and Recreation Department.
“(The new swimming dock) is such a great new amenity that we want to keep people safe,” she said.
Some 15 more people are needed to work between 15 and 40 hours a week from June through September, Oliver told The Bellingham Herald.
Four years ago, the city had received nearly 80 lifeguard applications and this year only about half that number of people have applied, she said.
It’s part of the “Great Resignation” of workers that all employers are experiencing during the new coronavirus pandemic, and it’s closing pools from Salt Lake City to Cincinnati, according to newspaper articles from those cities.
Newsweek recently reported that one-third of pools could be closed nationwide this summer.
But it’s not affecting Arne Hanna Aquatic Center, the city’s indoor pool, where swimming lessons are taught, Oliver said.
Bellingham lifeguards make $15.47 an hour and work a variable schedule.
To sweeten the pot, Oliver said that lifeguards who work at least 60 hours a month will get a $250 bonus.
Lifeguards must be at least 16 and pass a swimming test and background check.
Then, the city will pay for required training, including rescue skills and first aid, including CPR.
“We will train you and get you certified,” Oliver said.
