Time to Deal With Lifeguard Shortage

* Re “Surf City is Running Out of Lifeguards,” July 28:

Finally, the crisis in lifeguard service has been paid some attention.

The lack of qualified candidates for the job has been a major concern to those in lifeguard services for years. They saw the trend long ago and have been trying to get the attention of the public and senior government officials who have the authority to do something about it.

Thank you for shedding some light on an extremely important issue.

I’ve been in law enforcement for 22 years and a waterman all my life. My oldest son has been an ocean lifeguard for four years.

I have friends and family members who have served lifeguard agencies throughout Southern California. We have all seen a deterioration of service due to the inability to attract and retain quality personnel in public safety.

Unfortunately, it often takes a high-profile tragedy before assertive measures are taken by government to correct a problem, despite the best efforts of those providing safety services. I am thankful that The Times has addressed the situation proactively.

I am hopeful that we can turn this alarming trend around, save the professionalism of public safety services and return the focus of government to protecting citizens rather than pinching pennies.

MICHAEL P. KELLY

Huntington Beach