Arrigo, state officials announce DCR summer programs, safety measures

Former mayor Brian Arrigo was back in Revere last week with colleagues from his new job at the Mass. Dept. of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to tout safety programs and measures in place to keep the public safe at state public beaches and recreational sites.

Arrigo’s remarks, which focused on lifeguards and free-swimming lessons, were made four days before a pair of shootings disrupted the holiday weekend at Revere Beach.

 “The climate crisis is bringing hotter and hotter summers and beaches are important places,” said Arrigo adding that DCR is making sure there are enough certified lifeguards on duty. To that end, DCR is offering incentives and pay raises for those interested in a lifeguard job. Candidates can apply at www. mass.gov/lifeguards.

There are also free-swimming lessons for kids and anyone who doesn’t know how to swim. Details are available on the DCR website at: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation

 “Access to outdoor space builds healthy families,” said Rebecca Tepper, chief of the Energy and Environment Bureau of the attorney general’s office, who joined Arrigo on the beach. “Open space is for everyone, the entire state of Massachusetts. It’s critical to offer safe access to the water.”

 Other safety officials reviewed basic safety rules such as avoid swimming beyond one’s skill set and swim with the buddy system.

Lt. Col. James Concannon of the Mass State Police Marine Unit, spoke to remind the public about boating safety. He urged boaters to always have flares and an adequate number of safety vests on board adding that sea conditions change quickly. Concannon also warned the public that his unit will be targeting impaired operators during the upcoming season. And he stressed the need for parents to supervise kids who lack adequate fear of the water.

 “Drownings are preventable,” said Concannon. ” We implore you to use basic safety water practices. “