COURTESY PHOTO
Lifeguard Shannon Daly poses for a photo with, from left, state Rep. Donald Wong, Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton, and Department of Conservation and Recreation Commissioner Leo Roy.
As the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) prepares for the next season, Commissioner Leo Roy hopes to have well-trained lifeguards such as those at Breakheart Reservation and Revere Beach last year.
Joie Donnelly and Shannon Daly from Breakheart Reservation in Saugus, and Revere Beach’s Janel Welton and Jessica Santiago were among several lifeguards honored by the Baker-Polito administration earlier this month for their heroic efforts to assist others at DCR-managed beaches and pools throughout the state.
“The lifeguards we honor today are truly dedicated to ensuring the public stays safe at DCR-managed facilities, and will serve as excellent role models as the agency continues to recruit and train guards for the upcoming 2017 swimming season,” said Roy in a statement. “The Baker-Polito administration is extremely proud of their efforts, and it is my hope that many lifeguards will return to state waterfronts and pools again this year.”
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Between rip current saves, performing CPR and assisting distressed swimmers, members of the department conducted more than 200 rescues or assisted in life threatening situations during the summer months of 2016. DCR lifeguards receive extensive training prior to taking their post. They are trained to prevent injuries from occurring and to respond in an emergency to save a life.
Donnelly retrieved an unconscious swimmer from the deepest part of the beach’s guarded area at Breakheart on June 25 and performed CPR until the man was revived. He was transported to an area hospital and has since made a full recovery.
A day later, Daly saved a drowning and unconscious child from the water. The child had no noticeable breathing or pulse. Daly performed two cycles of CPR until the child regained both.
Welton and Santiago rescued a man who was drowning and unconscious while on guard at Revere Beach in late August. The victim regained consciousness after rescue equipment was used. He was transported to a nearby hospital and has completely recovered.
“On behalf of the Commonwealth, thank you for performing your duties at an exceptional level in order to protect the public,” said Gov. Charlie Baker in a statement.
Bridget Turcotte can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter @BridgetTurcotte.