A shortage of weekday lifeguards has operators at the Ponoka Aquaplex offering classes to increase its staffing.
Aquaplex operator Jackie Olson said most of her lifeguards are in university or high school and are in classes during the weekdays. She is looking for casual, part-time staff who can cover weekdays and is a certified trainer.
There is a certain level of responsibility to be a lifeguard and Olson is able to train people in Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross courses. First Aid and CPR courses are required and then a 40-hour lifeguard course must be taken. She feels being a lifeguard can be a rewarding experience.
“A good responder is someone who is on edge and ready to respond,” Olson said.
“It’s definitely a prestige thing,” she added.
Olson feels the position is ideal for a parent who has kids in school and wants to work during those times. Having extra lifeguards will allow her the chance to take in more kids from schools as well.
If eligible, the town may help with some of the costs involved with becoming a lifeguard.