German public swimming pools are currently grappling with a severe shortage of lifeguards. This difficulty was highlighted in a survey conducted by the Association of Municipal Companies (VKU) among 94 pool operators across Germany, conducted ahead of the start of the outdoor swimming season.
According to the survey, only 58 percent of the necessary positions were filled as of May 1st. The findings reveal a widespread staffing issue: almost one in three pools reported having vacancies of 10 percent, and in at least one in ten facilities, the number of unfilled jobs exceeded 30 percent.
In response to the acute staffing gaps, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) was suggested as a potential remedy. Smart camera systems could monitor visitors and assist in rescuing those who are drowning. However, the VKU noted that such technology presents major obstacles due to its high cost and significant data privacy concerns. Consequently, a large majority-71 percent (or two-thirds)-of the pool operators indicated that they do not plan to adopt AI technology within the next three years.
The survey, which compiled data from 94 operating pools, ran from April 8 to April 24, 2026, and comes ahead of the national Lifeguard Day, celebrated on May 22.