Massachusetts
After spike in drownings in 2021, Massachusetts increases lifeguards on duty
BOSTON – The state will probably be rising lifeguard hours in practically 30 swimming areas throughout the state starting Saturday.
After final summer time’s spike in drownings and lifeguard hiring incentives provided earlier this yr, the state stated lifeguards will probably be on responsibility from 10:15 a.m. to five:45 a.m. both 5 or seven days per week, relying on the situation.
“Security at our waterfronts is of the utmost precedence to the Baker-Polito Administration and we proceed to recruit lifeguards who’re devoted to making sure residents and guests are in a position to expertise these distinctive waterfronts in a protected setting all season lengthy,” stated Power and Environmental Affairs Secretary Beth Card.
Since Memorial Day Weekend, DCR-designated swimming areas have been performing water high quality testing. These places even have ropes and buoys in place, indicating the place people ought to swim. Nonetheless, DCR stated that whereas lifeguards will probably be on responsibility, individuals ought to nonetheless apply water security.