Memorial Day weekend is here, marking the unofficial start of summer, but Massachusetts officials are still working to hire enough lifeguards for the peak of summer staffing at beaches and pools. While dozens of Massachusetts' state beaches open swimming areas this weekend , full-time lifeguard staffing doesn't begin for nearly another month. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation's designated swimming areas officially open on Saturday, and although many will have lifeguards on weekends or holidays, seven-day-per-week coverage does not begin until June 15.
"We don't have a shortage. The process for getting lifeguards onboard is a fluid one," said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo. DCR has a total of 32 guarded properties during the peak of the summer season.
Of those, 16 will be staffed this weekend. Twelve of DCR's 21 spray decks opened on Wednesday, with more opening this weekend. DCR pools will open on June 22.
“We are excited to welcome thousands of visitors to our beautiful beaches and waterfronts this Memorial Day Weekend. DCR beaches are popular places for families and people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to enjoy as they seek relief from the summer heat,” said Arrigo. “Our waterfront safety staff, including our well-trained lifeguards, work hard to provide a safe experience to those who visit our beaches, pools, ponds and lakes each summer.
” Hourly rates for DCR lifeguards range from $22 to $27, depending on the position held and cert.
