Lifeguards worked at only 18 of Hong Kong’s 42 beaches over weekend, as labour shortages put swimmers at risk
- Of city’s 42 public beaches, 21 remain open without lifeguards and three are temporarily closed
- Among 18 locations with life-saving services, 13 were in the New Territories, while five were on Hong Kong Island
Only 18 of Hong Kong’s 42 public beaches had lifeguards on duty last weekend because of a severe labour shortage, a union has said, with swimmers potentially at risk as most locations remain open.
Unattractive salaries and keen competition from private housing complexes caused the lack of manpower, lifeguard union representatives said. They urged authorities to become more competitive in attracting staff.
In response to Post inquiries, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department said seasonal lifeguards were still being recruited. The department expected services at the remaining beaches to “gradually” return.
Among the 18 locations with life-saving services, 13 were in the New Territories, while five were on Hong Kong Island, including Repulse Bay and Stanley beaches.
The other 21 beaches remained open without lifeguards, with the department advising residents not to swim if nobody is on duty.
Three beaches – Hair Pin, Shek O Back (Rocky Bay) and Gemini – have been temporarily closed.
