SOUTHWICK – The town Park and Recreation Commission is struggling to find enough lifeguards to work on the town beach for this upcoming summer. The beach is set to open on June 29.
According to commission member Cara Cartello, they have a full-time lifeguard and another part-time lifeguard.
“It’s not enough to maintain the beach,” said Cartello.
The town is looking to hire about four or five more lifeguards in order to have a full staff throughout the summer. With the beach open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., people can work eight hour shifts and up to 40 hours per week.
Southwick Town Beach (WNG File Photo)
In order to be hired as a lifeguard on the town beach, you have to at least be in high school and need working papers from their respective school district’s office. Interested individuals also need both their CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and lifeguard certifications. Both of those trainings can be done with the American Red Cross or Wilderness Experiences Unlimited in Southwick. Cartello noted that she prefers to have lifeguards open water certified. The commission recommends to have the open water training done with Wilderness Experiences and teaches people how to be a lifeguard on a lake or beach, not just for a pool.
Cartello isn’t sure of the reason why she hasn’t received many applications for lifeguards this year whereas in past years she has been fully staffed.
“I feel like it’s a great summer job, it’s a nice place to work,” said Cartello. “You’re not stuck inside all summer.”
In the past, a number of high school and college students have been lifeguards on the beach. Each lifeguard goes through rotations and takes breaks. The town beach was renovated about three years ago. The restrooms, changing rooms, and snack shack were all renovated.
If anyone wants to apply to become a lifeguard for this summer, fill out an application on the Town of Southwick website or pick one up at the Select Board office at the town hall. You can also email Cartello at [email protected] or call Park and Recreation at 413-569-5701.
