Armed with the essentials of sweatshirts, sunglasses and cold beverages, Swampscott Recreation’s lifeguards took to their posts at Fishermen’s, Eismen’s and Phillip’s Beaches on Tuesday, just like they do every day from late-June to mid-August.
The lifeguards said they haven’t had to respond to any dangerous situations so far this summer, but Lila Cilley emphasized that staying prepared and remaining vigilant is always essential. Though, this summer, with a lot of jellyfish activity in the area, Swampscott lifeguards have had to spray down some people who had been stung.
Lifeguards did have to pass a test, certifying they could swim in the ocean and be able to assist with anyone who might need help in the water.
Cilley, along with fellow lifeguard Jane Raymond, set up shop at Eismen’s Beach for their six-hour shift on Tuesday. It was a quiet weekday morning on the beach, which meant the girls spent a lot of time talking with one another, while still keeping a watchful eye.
Both first-year lifeguards agreed that spending time outside with someone to talk to doesn’t make for a bad summer gig as a high school student.
“Answering people’s questions is a lot of the job,” said Raymond. “It’s been entertaining to interact with (beachgoers.)”
Swampscott lifeguards aren’t allowed to use their phones while on duty, so on slower days, conversation is one of the best ways to pass the time.
Raymond and Cilley said there have been some busy days, such as July 3, when Swampscott hosted its fireworks celebration.
Down the road at Fishermen’s Beach, Swampscott High School students Lyla Rogers and Anthony Colella kept an intentful watch on residents enjoying a beach day as well as paddle boarders in the shallow water.
“I love how we’re right on the beach and still get to enjoy being outside,” said Rogers, perched high above the sand in a lifeguard chair.
Colella agreed, saying despite not seeing too much action on most days, it beats some other summer jobs.
Swampscott lifeguards are on duty seven days a week at Fishermen’s, Eismen’s and Phillip’s Beaches, on watch from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
