No lifeguards at Sunset Beach, no drop-ins at Kits and Second Beach pools on B.C. Day
Posted August 1, 2022 1:19 pm.
Last Updated August 1, 2022 1:46 pm.
The Vancouver lifeguard shortage is affecting the city’s most popular swimming spots this B.C Day.
The Vancouver Park Board announced on Twitter Monday morning, due to “challenges” with lifeguard availability, drop-ins cannot be accommodated at the newly reopened pool in Kitsilano.
Reservations before 5:45 p.m. will not be affected, however, the park board announced the 5:45 swim has now been canceled.
Related Articles:
-
Pools battling to stay open amidst staff shortages, lifeguard society says
-
West Vancouver introduces lifeguard incentive program to mitigate staff shortage
-
Kitsilano Pool to re-open ahead of August long weekend
“We are working hard to make as many outdoor swim areas available as possible & will update as needed,” the park board wrote.
Beach front Kits pool reopened this past weekend on Saturday, July 30, after being severely damaged during a massive winter storm earlier this year.
In a second update just before midday, the park board also announced that there will be no lifeguards at the West End’s Sunset Beach, and is directing folks to a supervised swim area at English Bay beach.
Second Beach, in Stanley Park, is also without a lifeguard Monday. The closest supervised site is also English Bay Beach. The park board said the 6 p.m. reserved swim has been canceled.
“Refunds will be issued. Again, our apologies for the inconvenience,” the park board said.
Vancouver is not the only municipality struggling to find certified lifeguards. Some, like the District of West Vancouver, have offered incentives to train and certify lifeguards, including paying for courses.
