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Public swimming pools, by the numbers

Sep 18, 2023
Public pools are more of a bellwether for racial and economic inequality than you might think. We break down the numbers.
Despite hot temperatures, some pools were closed this summer due to staffing shortages or repairs.
Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images

Lack of lifeguards keeps pools, beaches closed as summer approaches

Jun 1, 2022
The pandemic hindered the ability to train enough lifeguards to fill enough spots.
The pandemic has exacerbated a variety of elements that have led to a nationwide shortage of lifeguards. As summer begins, many pools and beaches around the country will remain closed.
EVA MARIE UZCATEGUI/AFP via Getty Images

Lifeguard shortage will mean fewer days at the pool

Jun 1, 2021
Public and private pools are facing closures and limited hours because of a lack of qualified staff for the season.
A lot of lifeguard training was put on hold during the pandemic.
Brett Hemmings/Getty Images

What does the gender wage gap sound like?

Feb 16, 2018
In the U.S., on average, women earn 80 cents for every dollar men make, according to the Department of Labor.

Lifeguard shortages create opportunities for seniors

Jul 28, 2016
Plus, they're cool with leaving their cell phones behind at home.




At 85, Ed Myers is  now a lifeguard instructor at the YMCA in Austin, Texas.






 
Joy Diaz