Number Of City Lifeguards Exceed Expectations
To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.
Then come back here and refresh the page.
A record number of city lifeguards are keeping an eye on swimmers this summer.
The Parks Department says it reached its goal of 1,200 lifeguards to monitor the city's 54 outdoor pools and 14 miles of beach.
Last summer, some stretches of beach were closed because there were not enough lifeguards. But this year, all pools and beaches are open and 1,200 New Yorkers have a summer job.
"It can't hurt and it's a great opportunity for young kids to have a great job like this," said City Lifeguard Michael McMorrow.
"On a hot day in July when it's 95 or 100 degrees and you get a million people at the beaches, you got this crew. The few, the brave, the trusted, the strong, the confident, who are the ones who are making sure people are staying safe on the waters," said Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe.
City officials made the announcement as they previewed the special holiday weekend events at Coney Island, which includes a pro volleyball tournament.