Raleigh Parks and Recreation gear up for Memorial Day weekend pool openings

For Memorial Day weekend last year, about half of the pools in Raleigh were not open due to a lifeguard shortage.

However, this year is different because the Raleigh Parks and Recreation officials say they are much better staffed and ready for the holiday weekend.

With incentives such as increases in part-time salaries and ongoing lifeguard recruitment, more pools will be open to the public.

During the recreational swim time at the Pullen Aquatic Center, eight to 10 lifeguards are needed for the pool to be fully operational, with all lanes open.

One factor that could damper swimmers' plans this weekend is a forecast of storms headed for the Triangle.

With a WRAL weather alert day in place, Aquatic Program Director Aaron Weaver says the day will be well-spent even if no one shows up.

"We're expecting the opportunity to do some further training if nobody's at the pool," said Weaver. "That's one of the thing that we encourage our staff to do.

He says they want them to be rescue ready at all times.

"Even on those ugly rainy days as long as there's no thunder or lightning," Weaver said. "It is time that we can train."

He also says if anyone is brave enough to show up at one of the public pools Saturday, they will be welcomed.

Weaver encourages anyone interested in becoming a lifeguard to participate in a new program.

Individuals can learn the basic skills needed to participate in a Raleigh Lifeguard Course.

The program is free and happens every Friday through the end of June at Pullen Aquatic Center from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.