SOUTHWICK – The Southwick Town Beach is set to open June 26 but a lack of lifeguards could delay the start of summer.
Parks and Recreation Commissioner Daniel Call said yesterday that there are no applicants for lifeguards, which could be a concern for the Board of Health.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts allows beaches to run without lifeguards but Call said the town health board expressed hesitation at signing off on opening without lifeguards during its meeting last week.
“They want more information and they might involve town counsel and review with the Board of Selectmen,” said Call.
That could take a few weeks and Call is hoping it does not interfere with the beach opening.
“We’re getting awful close to the opening date,” he said.
The Commission advertised for lifeguards but no one applied.
“We even increased the pay to $12 per hour,” said Call.
The Commission is seeking certified lifeguards who also have first aid certification , as well as some experience.
Call said right now, he is not sure what is going to happen or if the local board can trump state laws.
“Since I’ve been on the board, we’ve always had lifeguards,” said Call.
