'Casual Swimmers Should Avoid Morning Beach Trips'

Two lifeguard unions are calling on those not proficient in swimming to stay away from public beaches in the morning this season, saying many of the venues may not have enough lifeguards then.

The Hong Kong Government Lifeguards General Union and the Hong Kong and Kowloon Life Guards' Union foresee a shortage of 400 lifeguards at both public beaches and pools this swimming season, which lasts from April to October.

They said the shortage has become worse this year. Given the situation, some of the public venues could find themselves without the required number of guards if someone listed for work doesn't turn up, they said.

Labour sector lawmaker Ho Kai-ming said the authorities should not keep the beaches open when faced with such sudden shortages. But lifeguards need to put in a request to close the beach and this takes time, he said.

"Therefore if you are not good at swimming, or go with children, we recommend you don't go to the beaches as some may not have enough lifeguards," Ho said.

The Federation of Trade Unions lawmaker also repeated his call on the government to do more to attract more people to work as lifeguards and boost the training requirements for them.