Grand Strand lifeguard service reports highest staff numbers since before pandemic

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - Over the past few years, some lifeguard services have struggled to get fully staffed before the start of summer.

However, this year, some services are seeing a wave of change.

John’s Beach Service said this spring has been one of their best hiring seasons since before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

“You’re keyed up, you’re ready to go,” said the Lead Supervisor for John’s Beach Service, Greg Urbine.

He said they are geared up for the summer rush that tourist season will bring to the beaches.

“It’s definitely picked up the past couple of weekends, with all the events happening, so they’re here, the crowds are here,” said Urbine.

He explained that after COVID, many lifeguard services experienced staffing issues that have taken years to recover from.

“This has been the best we’ve had since recent years,” said Urbine.

The longtime beach service said they’re aiming to have a full staffing of between 60-70 lifeguards this year, and they’ve already hired over 40.

“We’re ahead of the game as they say,” said Urbine.

To put the staffing into perspective, during COVID, John’s was only operating at about half the staff they currently have.

However, more staff isn’t the only thing this season is bringing. Urbine said they’re also seeing a more diverse age range with their applicants.

“All ages as well, so it’s not just the stigma of college students you know, we get a little high school and college, because we both do tenants and lifeguards, so you’re hiring for both elements, both sides of the job,” said Urbine.

The service also sees more Americans join the team than in previous years.

The company is hopeful the extra staff will give lifeguards the schedules they need, to keep them fresh on the job.

“They can get more days off, it just works out better for everybody,” said Urbine.

While most lifeguard services have completed the bulk of their hiring, Urbine said John’s Beach Service will continue to hire and train new staff members throughout the year.

Copyright 2024 WMBF. All rights reserved.