Rye lifeguard program reports full seasonal staffing and daily training schedule

Lt. Michael Rivet and Firefighter/EMT Rebecca O’Brien briefed the Town of Rye Beach Committee on July 6 on Rye’s lifeguard program, saying the town currently has 13 guards and a structured recruitment and training pipeline.

Rivet outlined the timeline for hiring and preparation: physical tryouts and interviews are offered across March, April and May; candidates must hold American Red Cross or equivalent First Aid, CPR and basic lifeguard rescue certifications before attending orientation week. The orientation focuses on Rye-specific equipment and procedures rather than basic certification.

Rivet and O’Brien said Department of Public Works crews repaired lifeguard chairs and equipment boxes before the season and handle setting out and taking in chairs at season start and end. Guards train at Wallis Extension from about 9:00 to 9:45 a.m., then staff assigned stations from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; lifeguard stations this season are at Pirates Cove, Sawyer’s and Cable. At day’s end, head lifeguards gather equipment at Cable for collection and storage.

The presenters described staffing fluctuations: coverage can be sparse between Memorial Day and early June while college-aged guards return, and again late in the season before Labor Day. The committee was told the lifeguards respond to about 20–25 events per season; that figure does not include routine preventive activities to reduce risks.

No formal action was taken. The committee did not request immediate policy changes; Co-Chairs said they would relay any follow-up needs to relevant town departments.