APPLETON, Wis. — Public pools in communities throughout Wisconsin are opening for summer, including Mead Pool in Appleton.
Drew Schmitz has worked as a lifeguard at Mead Pool for years. This will be his first summer as a manager. The job includes regular clean-up duties, like wiping down locker rooms and pool deck, as well as taking care of all the pool chairs, umbrellas and equipment.
“It teaches you a lot of amazing skills,” said Schmitz. “You’re in the community, keeping everyone safe. It’s super, super rewarding. So, all you need is that little first entry to get trained up.”
Schmitz said he learned quickly as a lifeguard that you have to be ready for anything at any time.
“On my first day, we had what’s called a three whistle, where we activated our EAP (Emergency Action Plan for an aquatic emergency). A little girl’s heart stopped,” said Schmitz. “I had to begin to do compressions, so that was a little bit of a wake-up call for me that serious things happen on the job.”
Michael Michling is a long-time manager at Mead Pool. He said he’s proud to have a hand in maintaining a positive public space and service for the city he’s proud to call home.
“I think my favorite part is just putting those skills to use and working with the patrons,” said Michling. “You can kind of see that your knowledge and your work has paid off, and that people are enjoying their day because of it.”
Before Schmitz goes back to school and the diving team at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater this fall, he said he plans to make the most of this summer working at Mead Pool.
“I’m excited to just see everyone splashing around in the water, having a good time,” said Schmitz.
From opening day to when the pool season ends, lifeguards all around Wisconsin remain ready to help.