Story by: Alekzander Jenkins 

First Coast residents’ risk of having swimming spots open due to a dwindling number of lifeguards; this also results in increased risks for residents in pools and on the beach. 

It is a trend seen across the First Coast, but it is not a new one, according to UNF Competition Pool Complex Senior Coordinator Jeni Ritter. 

“I would say a good 10 to 15 years,” Ritter said. “Defiantly post Covid it hurt a lot.”  

This lack of lifeguards has resulted in pools being unable to open safely, and even forcing some to close. 

“That happened a little this past summer,” Ritter said. “They had to close some of their pools because they couldn’t be fully staffed.” 

It is not just pools that suffer due to a lack of lifeguards; beaches also suffer from lifeguard shortages. Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue Lifeguard Nina Iveson said the number of people not applying could be the result of the tasks required. 

“I think it is the fact that you’re in charge of other people’s lives,” Iveson said. “But being confident in your skills and in your training is the biggest thing that helps me.” 

First Coast residents can help relieve the problem by looking into becoming lifeguards. Lifeguarding is open to residents of all ages, and many facilities are willing to pay for and train residents for the position.