The lifeguard shortage is so drastic across Washington, some pools or swimming areas won't even open this season. That is, unless community members step up and become lifeguards.
In Washington, the drowning rate is higher than the national average, including boating-related deaths. The drowning rate in Idaho and Oregon is even higher.
The need for lifeguards across the region has never been greater than right now. Organizations are also on the hunt for people to become swim instructors.
At Northshore YMCA, they say knowing how to swim and getting kids into lessons at an early age is the first line of defense in the water.
