No lifeguards on duty at the Assateague Island National Seashore

ASSATEAGUE ISLAND, Md. — There are no lifeguards on duty at national parks in Maryland.

Local beachgoer Scott said the absence of lifeguards does not impact him or his family at the beach. “The beaches probably should have them, because you take your chances when you go out, but it’s just the risk you take sometimes.”

The National Park Service manages the National Seashore. Due to changes made at the federal level this summer, it is likely that no lifeguards will be present.

Teresa, a tourist visiting her sister from Connecticut, said she wanted a quiet beach trip. She settled on the north side of the island and didn’t know about the change.

“Well, I’m from out of state, and for me, I’m just visiting the beach. I wasn’t aware there were no lifeguards until I drove in,” she said. Although lifeguards are present at the state park, Teresa will remain at North Beach.

“It’s not a concern for me because I know how to swim.”

Some families spoke to WMDT and said they were not excited about the change. The new policy will make them more vigilant on the beach.

Scott, however, said it’s up to the person to make a well-informed decision themselves.

“It’s no different than people who go to rivers or anything like that. You take the chance if you go out. If you’re not going to wear life preservers or learn how to swim, that’s up to you.”