The Portuguese Lifeguards Federation (FEPONS) says staffing pressures remain significant, with low wages, seasonal contracts and a lack of long-term planning contributing to difficulties retaining professionals in the sector.

According to FEPONS president Alexandre Tadeia, Portugal currently has around 5,000 certified lifeguards, but only a portion are expected to actively work during the summer season.

He argues the country would require between 6,000 and 6,500 lifeguards to fully cover beaches and bathing areas if normal working-hour limits were applied.

The federation also says many lifeguards leave the profession after only a short period, despite new trainees completing certification courses each year.

Figures cited by FEPONS suggest that nearly half of lifeguards choose not to return the following season, creating a constant cycle of recruitment and training without substantially increasing the overall workforce.

He said the issue is not a lack of training opportunities, but rather poor retention. Lifeguard certification must be renewed every 3 years, yet many qualified professionals choose not to continue working in the field.

The federation believes working conditions remain one of the biggest obstacles. Lifeguarding in Portugal is still heavily seasonal, concentrated mainly during the summer months, despite many coastal areas being used year-round by surfers, swimmers, fishermen and sports enthusiasts.

FEPONS has argued that Portugal lacks a national strategy for the profession and says stronger public-sector career structures are needed to improve stability and long-term recruitment.

The organisation also points to the country’s hundreds of public swimming pools as potential year-round employment opportunities for trained lifeguards.

Under the current system, many lifeguards are classified within lower-level public administration categories despite the demanding nature of the role and the responsibility involved in emergency decision-making.

Tadeia also raised concerns that formal employment contracts can negatively affect students who depend on grants or social support, making seasonal work less attractive for younger people, who currently make up a large part of the workforce.

Portugal’s official bathing season runs between April and October, depending on the municipality, with the busiest period beginning in June.

According to the Portuguese Environment Agency, the country has 671 identified bathing waters, including beaches on the mainland, in the Azores, and in Madeira.

Authorities continue to remind beachgoers to follow local safety guidance, pay attention to signage, and respect lifeguards' instructions throughout the summer.