NEW YORK – It’s getting hotter in the New York area and this Friday is expected to be one of the hottest days of the year with temperatures hitting the 90s.
Many may be thinking of heading to the beach or city pools to cool off, however the Parks Department has made it known that it is experiencing a shortage of lifeguards to keep New Yorkers safe.
The Big Apple’s beaches and pools are open to the public over Memorial Day weekend. Before the opening, the commissioner of the Parks Department warned the City Council parks committee that there were not enough lifeguards for this summer season, which could result in a reduction in the hours that the spas open.
So far, lifeguards are on duty every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, but the city currently only has a third of the lifeguards it needs to guard the beaches and pools. This despite the salary increases that occurred last year as a solution to attract more employees.
To date there are 280 returning lifeguards, 200 recruited in training. However, 1,400 are needed. The YMCA is also going through the same problem.
Solutions are expected to be released this Friday to address the problem of lifeguards and safety at pools and beaches.
Rosarina Bretón with the details.
2023-06-02 14:58:45
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