Seattle needs more lifeguards as swimming season fast approaches

The Seattle Parks and Rec Department is working to train and recruit more lifeguards as the region faces a lifeguard shortage.

Several local beaches were closed last year because of the same problem.

A shortage of experienced lifeguard leadership staff this year means the Evans and Queen Anne indoor pools will be closed this summer.

Parks and Rec is looking for temporary lifeguards to keep watch over six other indoor pools which are open now. Applicants will need to be at least 16 years old and must have the most current Red Cross lifeguard certification. Pay starts at $19.51 an hour.

Seattle's outdoor pools will begin opening June 4. They are slated to stay open through September 4. Wading pools are scheduled to open June 24.

Lifeguards will start keeping watch over Madrona Beach and West Green Lake Beach on May 29, which is Memorial Day.

But the beaches at Magnuson Park, Seward Park, and East Green Lake will remain closed this summer due to a lack of experienced open water lifeguards.