The City of North Bay is taking steps to extend the lifeguard season in an effort to attract more staff. With the summer season fast approaching, the city is facing a shortage of lifeguards for its public beaches and pools.
In order to combat this issue, the city is considering extending the lifeguard season beyond the usual Labour Day weekend closure. This would allow for more time to recruit and train lifeguards, as well as provide a longer period of employment for those already on staff.
According to the city’s Parks, Recreation and Leisure Services director, the shortage of lifeguards is a common issue faced by many municipalities. The job requires specific certifications and training, making it a competitive field to hire in.
In addition to extending the season, the city is also looking at increasing the hourly wage for lifeguards in hopes of attracting more applicants. Currently, the starting wage for a lifeguard in North Bay is $14.25 per hour, which is lower than some neighboring municipalities.
The city is also exploring the possibility of offering incentives such as free training and certification courses for those interested in becoming lifeguards. This would not only make the job more appealing, but also provide valuable skills and experience for future employment opportunities.
Extending the lifeguard season would not only benefit the city in terms of staffing, but also provide a longer period of safe swimming for residents and visitors. With the warmer weather lasting well into September, many people still frequent the beaches and pools during this time.
The city is hopeful that these measures will help attract more lifeguards and ensure the safety of its residents and visitors. The extended season would also provide a boost to the local economy, as more people would be able to enjoy the city’s beaches and pools for a longer period of time.
In order to make this plan a reality, the city will need to secure additional funding from the municipal budget. However, the potential benefits of a longer lifeguard season far outweigh the costs.
The City of North Bay is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all those who visit its beaches and pools. By extending the lifeguard season, the city is taking proactive steps to address the shortage of lifeguards and ensure the safety of its residents and visitors.
