Shortage of lifeguards in France

Swimming pools are being forced to shut or close early due to a shortage of 5,000 lifeguards across France.

Connexion journalist

Published Wednesday 23 January 2019 - 15:00 Modified Wednesday 23 January 2019 - 15:00

Lifeguards do not give lessons but pools can open only if they are on duty, so people cannot get swimming lessons.

Too few people are signing up for maîtres nageurs lifeguard courses, which can cost €6,000, so there is a shortage as the number of pools rises.

The number of drowning deaths doubled last year.

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