Pawtucket Public Safety Personnel To Train As Lifeguards

PAWTUCKET, RI — Members of the city's Public Safety Department will pursue lifeguard certification this summer so the city can open the Fairlawn Veterans Memorial Park Pool.

There’s been a lifeguard shortage this summer, and the city was having a hard time finding enough certified lifeguards to staff the pool. The Public Safety Department — which comprises police, fire, emergency management, and public works — stepped up, Mayor Donald Grebien said in a news release.

“We are all working together to open the pool for our community,” said Grebien. “We understand how much it means to our residents to have this facility open and I want to thank the cooperation of Pawtucket Public Safety for their willingness to be flexible and assist us.” Grebien said the pool has a 150-person capacity, and that the pool tends to fill up quickly when it’s open.

The city had worked hard to solicit lifeguards, offering competitive wages and incentives such as the reimbursement of certification costs, but still didn't attract enough takers.

Public safety personnel will be certified as lifeguards over the next two weeks. There’s no set date on when the pool will open, but Grebien said he’ll keep the public apprised. More information will be posted at www.pawtucketri.com/parks-recreation-department. The pool is located at 271 Smithfield Ave.

Pawtucket’s job posting for lifeguards is still active, and anyone interested is still welcome to apply. All candidates must be 16 years of age. Certification information can be found here. Lifeguards must have an up-to-date American Red Cross Certification for Lifesaving (non-surf), American Red Cross Certification for First Aid / CPR / AED, and a friendly, upbeat attitude to
work with the youth and public.

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