Dive in, OCCC needs more lifeguards
By Sabrina Bosquez Aviles, News Writing Student
A national shortage of lifeguards exists across the nation, according to an American Red Cross press release and is affecting OCCC.
“We need about 10 more lifeguards at least,” said Aquatic and Safety Training Specialist James Hensley. “Twenty-five would be nice but not likely.”
He said the shortage has not affected the safety of those who use the facilities.
“We have at least one lifeguard on duty at all times.
“Generally, the college has two to three on and it would be nice to have as many as five lifeguards for every shift,” Hensley said.
OCCC student and lifeguard Wyatt Fairchild said lifeguards are stretched thin trying to cover all shifts.
Students also come to the rescue when swimming lesson instructors forget to schedule a certified instructor, he said.
“We have a monthly meeting about how to get the word out about the shortage, and some of the lifeguards and I go to high schools and set up a booth of information for students so they can be aware of life guarding jobs available, not just at OCCC, but all over the state of Oklahoma,” Fairchild said.
Even though he said he is a little biased, Fairchild said working at the Aquatic Center is something he would recommend to anyone because of the flexible schedule and the job security, and employees get to work year-round.
“The pool is even open on Saturdays so students or people who have a full time week schedule can work on the weekend,” Fairchild said.
Hensley said those interested should apply right away.
“We don’t just need lifeguards for the summer but for fall as well.”
Hensley speculates the reason there is a lifeguard shortage is the certification lifeguards must have that costs around $130. People may not be willing to spend the money.
“We posted this job opening last year and we have more spots to fill,” Hensley said.
Starting pay is $8 an hour beginning July 1 and shifts run four to five hours long depending on the time of day.
Applicants must be 16 years or older to become working certified lifeguards.
The Aquatic Center is open 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday.
For more information, visit www.occcjobs.com or call Hensley in the Aquatic Center at 405-682-1611, ext. 7662.
