Looking for pool lifeguards

It used to be "lifeguarding" was one of the hottest jobs of the summer, but each year it gets more difficult to find young people to watch over Tulsa area pools. <br/><br/>The search is on for young swimmers,

Tuesday, April 12th 2005, 10:06 am

By: News On 6

It used to be "lifeguarding" was one of the hottest jobs of the summer, but each year it gets more difficult to find young people to watch over Tulsa area pools.

The search is on for young swimmers, willing to dive into upcoming training programs. News on 6 anchor Tami Marler says the countdown is on to summer.

City of Tulsa public pools open June 11th, provided there are enough lifeguards to keep swimmers safe. Not too long ago, public pools like New Block Park had to shut down because of a lifeguard shortage. The American Red Cross is trying to avoid that this year, so they're gearing up, getting instructors ready for the season.

The American Red Cross trains virtually anyone who has anything to do with water activities. A group of area aquatic coordinators gathered at Red Cross headquarters Tuesday to discuss their needs for the 2005 summer season. "We need lifeguards, we need water safety instructors, so then as the Red Cross, it's our responsibility to get those students trained." Farrah Dever says Red Cross water safety classes are getting smaller and smaller, perhaps because people don't realize there's such a demand for trained lifeguards.

"People don't realize that our neighborhood pools, fitness facilities, other pools that are not as visible as city pools, need lifeguards also." The City of Tulsa only plans to open six pools this summer. Berry, Lacy, McClure, Reed, Whiteside and Turner Parks. They'll fill a total of 40 lifeguard positions. But pools like the Wilson YWCA also need lifeguards and

Dever says the Red Cross helps hundreds of well-trained young people find jobs each summer. "This is a professional position. It's not just a suntan for someone. This is a job that will train you for the rest of your life." Starting out, at more than seven bucks an hour.

The Red Cross is offering classes in Bixby starting April 15th. Tulsa classes begin in June. For scheduling information, call the Enrollment Hotline at 831-1126. Lifesaving courses take 32 hours over several days.