'National Crisis': Barnstable 21 Lifeguards Short Headed Into Busy Summer Months

BARNSTABLE (CBS) – The Barnstable Recreation Department said the town is currently short 21 lifeguards heading into the busy summer months, part of what is says is a "national crisis" made even worse by the COVID pandemic.

"There has been a national crisis for years now," a Barnstable Recreation spokesperson said.

During the COVID pandemic, no lifeguard training was being taught, and most swim lessons were also halted.

"As a result, it has left us all shorter than we had been," the department said.

Many lifeguards did not work last summer during the pandemic, so they no longer hold certifications.

The town is offering a class next week in the evenings for anyone looking to receive lifeguard training. If a person is hired by the town, the fee for the class will be reimbursed.