The warmer weather is heading our way, and more people are taking advantage of Massachusetts beaches.
But state officials say a disappointing trend is happening with those that keep us safe in the water.
The weather Saturday was perfect for a day at the beach. What makes it even better for Fredrick Sawe of Boston are lifeguards to help him watch his three energetic kids.
"One could run over there, the other could run over there," he said.
That's why Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation officials are anxious. Right now, they are 275 lifeguards short of being "full staff." That could mean some state beaches, like South Boston's Carson Beach, would have fewer people watching out for an emergency. It's a trend that's been going on for several years.
"It was harder and harder to get lifeguards every summer," said DCR Aquatic Director John Dwinell.
With roughly 200 rescues a year, many at state beaches, Dwinell doesn't want to put people in jeopardy.
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"Instead of filling all of the chairs, we may have some chairs that are vacant, and we'll pit up signs saying 'no lifeguard beyond this point,'" he said. "We do want to make sure we have guards at all of our beaches, though, for folks who do need that extra layer of protection."
He says a better economy could be why he's losing guards.
"A lot of our guards who said they were going to be coming back have internships, or are finding jobs right out of college," said Dwinell. "Three years ago, when jobs were pretty scare, we were doing pretty well with returning veteran lifeguards."
Not everyone is uneasy with the notion of fewer lifeguards, many New England beaches don't have that layer of protection.
"I grew up feeling really comfortable around the water and knowing about things like riptides," said Lissa Riley of Cambridge.
The DCR is ready to hire 275 guards and they will be all summer. To apply, just head to your local pool, call (617) 626-1224 or email dcraquaticsunit@massmail.state.ma.us.
