Ocean Springs YMCA looking for lifeguards

Making a splash against the national lifeguard shortage, the YMCA in Ocean Springs is getting creative with ways to keep their pools open to the public and safe with lifeguard staff.

As public pools across the Coast are reopening, the need for lifeguards is at an all time high. At the YMCA in Ocean Springs, lifeguards and lifeguard instructors are both needed.

The YMCA offers lifeguard training and CPR certification to those who pass the pre-test. The YMCA hires lifeguards starting at 15-years-old. The certification is good for two years.

Training is a combination of virtual learning and 20 hours of in-pool practice. Ocean Springs YMCA Aquatics Director Mandy Clark said, “We have extra classes coming up to train them. I’m offering on-the-spot interviews right after the classes are over and they passed the test. So, I’m not going to say we’re desperate, but we are in need for these lifeguards. We have hours to give, all these positions to fill and the need is there. The demand is here. Our pools are packed. Our programs are packed. So, we need these lifeguards. We need these first responders to come in and help us out.”

The Ocean Springs YMCA is offering everyone the discounted membership fee of $185 for lifeguard training and an interview once training is complete.