A lifeguard shortage in Midwest City has caused repeated closures and limited operations at the Reno Swim and Slide, leaving families frustrated during the summer season. City officials say the facility typically requires 40 to 50 certified lifeguards to operate all attractions safely, but currently, only 23 lifeguards are on staff.

Lifeguard Shortage Impacts Summer Fun

This shortage has forced periodic closures of the diving area, water slides, and kiddie pool, and the pool has been closed entirely for six days this summer due to insufficient staffing. Benny Fulkerson, a representative for the city of Midwest City, explained the staffing needs further, saying, ‘We have ten different lifeguard stands at this facility, and we need a body in each one of those to be fully operational. We need at least 20, just to open and be fully operational at that position on any given day.’

City officials are optimistic about resolving the issue, as 11 additional lifeguard candidates have completed training and are awaiting Red Cross certification. They hope the certifications will be issued soon to bolster staffing levels. Acknowledging the inconvenience for season pass holders, the city is offering refunds to those who purchased passes and wish to cancel.

Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.