Lifeguards Needed
By Albert B. Kelly
Over the course of my time as an elected official, I expect
to have a fair number of issues that call for the utmost in persistence and perseverance.
These issues are often complex with many aspects to them. Then there are other
issues that you might think are fairly straight forward, but they’re not. Take
for example the opening of Sunset Lake to the public for swimming in the summer
months.
Not long after I became mayor in August of 2011, we had
heavy flooding that blew out portions of the road and raceway in City Park with
the end result being that Sunset Lake completely drained out. Making the
necessary repairs to the road and the raceway cost a small fortune and it
involved the Army Corp of Engineers, the DEP and countless officials up and
down the food chain we call government. All of it, from assembling the funding
to setting forth plans; getting permits and approvals, and actually completing
the work took roughly four years, but we got it done.
It was a joyous day when we cut the ribbon on Sunset Lake and
I savored it because there are not many joyous days in local government. After
cutting the ribbon, it was all about how quickly Sunset Lake would fill and
much to our delight; the lake was full in a few weeks. After that, the focus
shifted to water quality.
The hope was that the dormant period for the lake might
actually help improve the water quality and it did to a degree. We worked with Stockton
University’s Environmental Sciences Department, Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural
Experiment Station’s Cooperative Extension Program, and the Cohansey Area Watershed
Association to identify causes. We also installed aerator devices and water
quality has improved.
For all of that though, the one issue that has proved to be
the most challenging is finding and keeping enough lifeguards. You would think
that this would be the easier part, but it’s not. For one thing, it isn’t
enough to be a good swimmer, lifeguards need certifications specific to
lakefronts. Beyond that, there’s CPR, along with AED which stands for automatic
external defibrillator. Finally, a successful candidate must have the ability
to administer first aid, maintain rescue equipment, enforce swimming
regulations, remain calm during a rescue, and report hazardous conditions.
All of that is to say that Bridgeton is seeking lifeguards
for summer of 2020. If you have the certifications already, please contact our
Parks and Recreation Department at (856) 453-1675 to get more information and
find out how to apply. If you don’t have the certifications but would consider
getting certified, the City of Bridgeton is completing steps to cover costs and
reimburse candidates who complete the courses and serve as lifeguards at Sunset
Lake. After that we will be paying competitive wages to our lifeguards.
The Cumberland Cape Atlantic YMCA is offering prep classes
starting in February and going through into spring. The course includes all the
up to date course/materials for Lifeguard, First Aid, CPR and AED
certifications. The Cumberland Cape Atlantic YMCA will hold practice sessions
and to improve skills and/or complete the pre-screening skills requirement at
various times in February.
Individuals who complete the pre-requisite swimming skills
will be able to sign up for the Lifeguard Training Course. Prospective
lifeguards will need proof of age (i.e., must turn 15 years old before the last
day of the registered course date) as well as a bathing suit and towel. All
classes will be held at the Y, except for one date per course (will be held at
the Holly City Family Center, located in Millville). Approximate times for
classes will be 12-6pm.
Course 1 is offered on February 22, 29, March 7, 14, and
possibly 21st. Participants must register by Saturday, February 15th.
Course 2 will be offered on April 25, May 2, 9, and 16 and registration for
Course 2 must be by Saturday, April 18. The fees are $190 for members and $245
for nonmembers and
100% attendance is required for all dates.
Bridgeton needs lifeguards and working as a lifeguard fits
well with a high school student’s schedule. Once certified, they would have the
opportunity to work at Sunset Lake until they leave for college. To get more
information about lakefront lifeguarding, contact Mary Desjardins aquatics@ccaymca.org.
To find out more about working at Sunset Lake, please contact the Recreation
Department at (856) 451-1675.