Hundreds of lifeguards needed

We recently reported on a looming lifeguard shortage as COVID-19 disruptions continue to limit the number of qualified applicants.

• But we didn't know how bad the situation was until seeing the results of a FOIA request we filed for hiring documents from the Chicago Park District.

By the numbers: While the city employs 163 year-round lifeguards, as of last Friday it had not yet hired any seasonal lifeguards for 2022.

• The district typically needs 587 lifeguards to fully staff beaches and pools.
• Just 254 people had applied for those jobs as of Friday, according to the documents.

Of note: Beaches officially open for swimming May 27.

Details: You can apply for a Park District lifeguard position here.