Philadelphia’s Bold Move: Training Lifeguards Who Can’t Swim

Redefining the Path to Lifeguard Certification

In an innovative and highly pragmatic approach to combat a worsening lifeguard shortage, the City of Philadelphia is making waves with its decision to hire potential lifeguards who dont yet meet swimming requirements. Yes, you read that correctlyapplicants who currently can't pass the initial swim test are being offered free swim lessons before the summer season kicks off.

This unconventional hiring strategy, reported by Philadelphia Magazine and covered by SwimSwams Reid Carlson, addresses a pressing and persistent problem. In recent years, especially post-COVID-19, many public pools across the United Statesincluding those in Philadelphiahave remained closed or underutilized due to a lack of trained lifeguards. By removing one of the main barriers to entryimmediate swimming proficiencyPhiladelphia is attempting to turn the tide.

Tackling Structural Inequities Through Opportunity

Its easy to take swimming for granted, but the ability to swim is not a universal skill. Many urban communities lack access to public pools or affordable swim lessons. This limits not only recreational opportunities but also job prospects in aquatics for local youth. Philadelphias plan recognizes this reality and creates a new, inclusive pathway to lifeguardinga summer job that pays significantly above minimum wage ($16$18/hour versus Pennsylvanias $7.25/hour) and teaches critical life-saving skills.

By offering training and certification at no cost, Philadelphias initiative opens the door for individuals who may have never considered lifeguarding due to financial, social, or educational constraints. This plan subtly addresses broader systemic issues, even if thats not its primary goal.

Not BeginnersJust Not Certified Yet

According to Kathryn Ott Lovell, Commissioner of Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, the city isnt recruiting non-swimmers off the street. Rather, theyre investing in those who can swim but dont yet meet the required ALA screening standards. These near swimmers may only need a bit of guidance and practice to qualify, and with free lessons and waived course fees (typically $150$250), theres little standing in their way now.

Applicants must still pass all components of the ALA lifeguarding certificationincluding a 300-yard continuous swim, a timed brick retrieval, and a written testbefore they can be employed. But now theyre given time and tools to succeed rather than being excluded upfront.

From Shortage to Surplus?

Philadelphia needs over 400 lifeguards to fully operate its 60+ public pools, but has struggled in past seasons to meet even a fraction of that. The lifeguard shortage is not unique to Philadelphiaits a national crisis. COVID-19 shutdowns in 2020 disrupted swim training pipelines, and the slow reopening of aquatic facilities hasnt helped.

The decision to offer pre-certification lessons serves a dual purpose: it builds a local talent pool while ensuring public pools can stay open. Open pools mean more recreational options, safer neighborhoods, and increased access to swim instructionespecially for children.

A Blueprint for Other Cities?

This model, while still in early stages, could inspire similar programs across the country. Unlike USA Swimmings Make A Splash initiativewhich focuses on long-term water safety educationPhiladelphias strategy is more tactical. Its about workforce development and keeping public resources operational. But the ripple effects may extend further than expected.

What if more cities offered free certification courses to high schoolers or community college students? What if summer jobs were linked with life-saving skills and career-building training instead of just fast food gigs? Theres room here for public policy and youth engagement to converge.

Not Just About Competitive Swimming

Some critics question whether programs like these will push more minorities or underrepresented groups into competitive swimming. While that would be an excellent outcome, its not the programs purpose. This isnt a pipeline for elite athleticsits a public health and employment strategy.

Still, familiarity with water and access to pools inevitably breeds confidence. Todays trained lifeguard might become tomorrows swim coach, instructor, or even athlete. And at the very least, communities will gain more residents who are water-safe.

Overcoming the Pay Gap in Youth Work

Another smart aspect of Philadelphias approach is how it positions lifeguarding competitively in the job market. With fast food chains and retail stores offering signing bonuses and flexible hours, cities must offer more than nostalgia to recruit youth for summer roles.

Lifeguarding offers a resume boost, real responsibility, and crucial certifications. It can lead to careers in public safety, healthcare, education, or recreation. The fact that Philadelphia is willing to remove upfront training costs makes the proposition even more appealing.

A Cultural Shift in Public Safety

Ultimately, Philadelphias plan represents a shift in how we think about public safety and workforce preparation. Instead of viewing swim skills as a prerequisite, the city sees them as teachable. By meeting people where they areand equipping them with the tools to succeedPhiladelphia is not only solving an immediate problem but also investing in long-term community resilience.

In an era where public services are stretched thin, and youth employment faces numerous barriers, this program stands out as an example of innovative, equity-minded policy in action. Whether it leads to safer summers, better-trained lifeguards, or broader access to aquatic activities, the City of Brotherly Love deserves credit for diving in headfirst.

Originally reported by Jeremy Henderson. Article expanded and adapted with new insights.

Author Bio

Harlan Elio is a writer, researcher, and social impact advocate who explores the intersection of urban policy, community empowerment, and public service innovation. With a passion for equity and youth development, Tamoor brings fresh perspectives to initiatives that challenge the status quo and uplift underserved populations.