With the summer's first real heat wave upon us, many New Yorkers are looking for ways to stay cool. But cooling off in one of New York City's free public swimming areas has become increasingly difficult.

A lifeguard shortage, combined with a lack of functioning public pools, has decreased the availability of a place to swim, and made for long lines and crowded lanes.

Katie Honan, senior reporter for The City news site, joined Morning Edition host Michael Hill to talk about the situation.