Lifeguard Shortage Impacts Maple Grove Swimming Pond

Many people soaked up the sun and splashed around at the Elm Creek swim pond in Maple Grove on Thursday. However, beachgoers will notice empty lifeguard chairs.

According to Three Rivers Park District officials, there won’t be lifeguards on duty Monday through Wednesday at the Elm Creek location until officials can make make more hires.

“Typically, we hire anywhere from 25-35 lifeguards, and this year we’re sitting at around 15 currently,” said Jessie Montgomery, facility supervisor with the Three Rivers Park District.

No lifeguards on duty Mon-Wed at Elm Creek swim pond

According to the American Lifeguard Association, a lifeguard shortage could prevent about a third of the nation’s pools from opening this summer. That means people will have to be more cautious.

“I would definitely like some more support here. It’s shallow, so I feel like if you keep an eye on your kids, it should be okay,” said Elm Creek visitor Melanie Koceski.

“You definitely have to be more responsible for your actions because there’s not going to be this person who’s ready to dive in and save you,” said teen swimmer Brianna Delapena.

Shortage increases during pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic is partly to blame for the low numbers. During the brunt of the pandemic, the Red Cross wasn’t offering certification classes, so people couldn’t get credentials. Now, the Three Rivers Parks District is desperately trying to attract more candidates. 

“We’re really flexible here. We’re looking for people who want to work two days a week, all the way to full-time hours,” said Montgomery.

Three Rivers has a training program where it will pay people to become a certified lifeguard.

Meanwhile, some folks hope things turn around soon and more lifeguards come on board.

“It is nice to know usually you can come to a place where there are lifeguards,” said visitor Kaitlyn McDermott.

Also See: Maple Grove to Allow Swimming at Weaver Lake Beach Without Lifeguards

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