CLEARWATER, Fla. – The City of Clearwater is in need of lifeguards.

Emily Sullivan has worked for the city as a lifeguard more than three years.

"I like watching the kids learn to swim," Sullivan said. "Watching someone who was scared of the water then move up to being able to swim, on the swim team it’s really cool to watch the progress."

With swim lessons resuming in January and the city getting ready to hire lifeguards and instructors for the summer, the search is on.

"We really want to be proactive and get some lifeguards trained and be ready to come onboard come summer because the city of Clearwater has five pools,” said Shaun Beasley, Recreation Manager for the City of Clearwater.

The more lifeguards on staff, the more classes the city can offer.

"Especially living in Florida, I think it’s super important that everyone knows how to swim,” Sullivan said.

Learning to swim has changed because of Coronavirus concerns. From fewer students in each class, to making sure lifeguards have PPE, Beasley says precautions are being taken.

"We’re giving more time in between classes so the lifeguards can wipe down all touch points around the building," Beasley said.

"We are requiring the parents to be in the water with the children so they’ll be less touch points with the kids and the interaction and the actual swim instructor.”

Beasley says the city is serious about swim lessons, reminding they need lifeguards to make the classes available.

It's a job it's a job Sullivan highly recommends.

"I’m always happy leaving work, the kids tell you the funniest stories, so I never leave work angry or frustrated,” Sullivan said.

To find out more information, visit myclearwaterparks.com.