Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
REVERE, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has announced bonuses for new hires to combat a shortage of lifeguards ahead of the summer season.
DCR has offered a $500 bonus for those who commit to the job early, with an additional $250 retention bonus offered for those who stayed on through mid-August, and an additional $500 bonus for those who stayed on through Labor Day.
The struggle to find lifeguards to staff state beaches and pools has been a recurring problem. According to information from the American Lifeguard Association, the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to the problem, as “social distancing meant fewer training opportunities for new lifeguards and recertification.”
Read More: Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll: Massachusetts Needs Lifeguards
WBZ NewsRadio asked some residents as to whether they thought these bonuses would work.
“It’s good money, you know? A lot of things are $1,000 you know? I think it’s a good idea and you’ll see more kids doing it this summer,” said Wayne from Lynnfield.
Paul from Revere was not as confident.
“Who knows today? Nobody knows,” Paul said. “[The kids] do what they want to do today and that’s the way it is!”
In addition to the need for lifeguard staff, DCR has also announced open applications for pool/waterfront supervisors, and water safety instructors.
WBZ NewsRadio’s James Rojas (@JamesRojasMMJ) reports.