The state still hasn't been able to attract lifeguards for this summer at several locations including Squantz Pond State Park in New Fairfield. The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has again raised the starting pay for lifeguards to $19 an hour, up from $16. Lifeguard positions are also still available at Black Rock in Watertown, Burr Pond in Torrington, and Sherwood Island in Westport among others. In addition to the increased starting salary, DEEP is providing all training required to work as a lifeguard, and training time is paid. DEEP will be holding a pre-requisite swim test for applicants next weekend, on June 11th and 12th. Applicants are encouraged to apply before the test. The final deadline to apply is June 17th. Most weekends and the July 4 holiday are mandatory. The hours are 10am to 6pm, 5 days a week. The minimum age is 16, and 18 for lifeguard supervisors.
