BOSTON (AP) — Closures last year during the pandemic along with international workers having difficulty getting visas is leaving many lifeguard positions unfilled this summer.
That will mean some pools and beaches will be closed, even as people flock to the water and the shore to cool off and relax as the coronavirus pandemic eases in many New England states, the Boston Globe reported on Sunday.
Many certification or recertification classes were shut down during the pandemic and when they reopened, social distancing guidelines kept classes small, the American Lifeguard Association told the newspaper.
There is also a backlog for processing visa applications for seasonal workers, B.J. Fisher, the association’s director of health and safety, said.
The shortage of certified lifeguards has been a problem for years.
The town of Barnstable is still trying to recruit another two dozen lifeguards to reach its goal of having 105 on staff. That’s despite offering referral bonuses and recruiting at schools, swim teams and a youth job fair.
Stay connected with us on social media platform for instant update click here to join our Twitter, & Facebook
We are now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@TechiUpdate) and stay updated with the latest Technology headlines.
For all the latest LifeStyle News Click Here
For the latest news and updates, follow us on Google News.
